Tip: Hopefully there will be English surtitles at the opera you attend, although not so likely in Italy I guess. Knowing the plot and the music will enhance your enjoyment of an opera far more than being able to discern some of the words.
I've picked up some Italian over the years simply from being interested and making visits there. But being able to understand live opera singers is a different matter, particularly given the size of many opera houses and the diction of the singers.
However your desire to learn Italian is laudable and anything you can learn will greatly enhance your visit. These days my Italian learning comes from the DVD box set of Inspector Montalbano, with subtitles on.
I've picked up some Italian over the years simply from being interested and making visits there. But being able to understand live opera singers is a different matter, particularly given the size of many opera houses and the diction of the singers.
However your desire to learn Italian is laudable and anything you can learn will greatly enhance your visit. These days my Italian learning comes from the DVD box set of Inspector Montalbano, with subtitles on.
