For many, it starts with developing an appreciation for an aria.

From there, it grows to liking an entire opera, before an affection for the genre grows.

From a young age, Michael Lamb developed a love for the singing and acting seen in operatic performances.

“When I was a kid, probably not even 10, my father had three 78 records of opera excerpts,” he said. “That started me off, I guess.”

Since then, Lamb has continued to further his liking for the genre through the Sudbury Opera Guild. When it was started in 1984, the Guild was responsible for making opera accessible to Sudburians.

Members would travel to live performances across the province and into upper states, and meet regularly to discuss what they were viewing. Today, the guild does much of the same, with less emphasis on travel.

Since The Metropolitan Opera began streaming live high-definition performance to theatres like Silver City, members of the guild can stay in town and still experience performances at their finest.

“For $22, you can stay at home and see it from New York on the big screen,” Martina Perras, a member of the guild, said.

While technology has altered how the guild enjoys opera, the traditions haven't changed. The guild still travels to the Canadian Opera Company once a year, and meets regularly to talk shop.

Once a month, the majority of the 40-some guild members get together to discuss an upcoming performance, a recent performance or a hot topic in the industry.

“If you're interested in anything, you probably want to know more about it,” Diane Moore, guild member, said. For many of the members, that's the appeal. Passions are often more enjoyable when shared with others who share the passion.

“The more you learn about opera, the more you like it,” Moore said. The guild agreed it can often be an “acquired taste,” but one that's worth getting to know.

“It's the complete art,” Moore said. “Costumes, sets, music, stories, singing and dancing. (Opera is) the ultimate art form.”

For Perras, it's all about the music.

“The music is sublime,” she said. “It transports you. There are certain ones that still give me goosebumps.”

Those interested in the art form and learning more about it are welcome to attend a guild gathering.

The group meets Oct. 14 in Room 2253 at Cambrian College beginning at 2 p.m. New members are always welcome to join.

Anyone interested in learning more about the guild can contact Moore at 705-692-4087.