Responding to the last few posts at once here - I don't get to play very often so I need to get it in once bunch!! I love the idea of discussing the historical accuracy/inacurracy of Aida etc. It might be interesting to speculate on the aspects of "opera" that might have been part of the music (chant/instrument) of ancient religions at the same time. I have a feeling that musical expression is not so different. It's merely a difference in the "stage".
I do play an instrument - piano quite well, and some very mediochre guitar, mostly to sing along. I do also sing with a chorale group that performs three times a year. I don't sing that well, but enjoy it and am a great choral alto support since my voice is extremely mediochre but very steady and right on tune. Maybe we could also discuss the role of the chorus in the ancient world - again it would have taken on many different aspects of religion and entertainment?