Set in 19th-century Seville, Carmen is a fiery tale of passion, jealousy, and tragedy. The opera centers around Carmen, a free-spirited and seductive gypsy woman who works in a cigarette factory. She captivates Don José, a dutiful soldier, with her bold charm and draws him away from his military career and his childhood sweetheart, Micaëla.

Don José becomes obsessed with Carmen, eventually deserting the army to follow her into a life of smuggling. However, Carmen soon tires of his possessiveness and falls for the glamorous bullfighter Escamillo. Consumed by jealousy and unable to accept her rejection, Don José confronts Carmen outside the bullring and, in a final act of desperation and rage, stabs her to death.

Bizet's music, particularly Carmen’s sultry Habanera and Escamillo’s rousing Toreador Song, has made the opera one of the most popular and frequently performed in the world. Despite a lukewarm reception at its 1875 premiere, Carmen is now celebrated for its realism, vivid characters, and unforgettable melodies.

The learning files are broken up into two sections:

• Section 1S1:   Acts I and II
• Section 2S2:   Acts III and IV

To start practicing, select a section, then select your vocal part. Playback will start automatically. Sing easy. Practicing independently does not need to sound beautiful and should never strain your voice. Your choral conductor will appreciate the time you took to master the notes and rhythm.