Once in a while I ask a student if they have seen an opera. The most common response to that question is, “Opera? What’s that?”

What’s that? Is that the best response to that question. I think not.

One thing that opera is not is boring. Last year I was fortunate enough to attend two operas by the same composer. Giacomo Puccini’s operas “La Boheme” and “Madama Butterfly” were playing at the Music Center in downtown Los Angeles.

My first impression was that I was going to find the operas boring.

I was wrong.

After seeing “La Boheme” I developed an appreciation of music in general.

Not only did opera open my mind to the great impression that music can make, but also my heart. I tell you this much, to me, it is much greater than seeing a rock concert.

If you haven’t seen an opera before, I suggest that everyone should. Opera, I should point out is not for people over 60, but is for everyone in general.

I have great appreciation for all music, thanks in large part to the Music Appreciation class I took last year.

“Seeing is believing” as the saying goes. I ask you would you rather enjoy an opera or a boring movie?