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Richard Wagner

Richard Wagner: The Visionary of Music Drama

Introduction to Richard Wagner

Wilhelm Richard Wagner (1813–1883) was a German composer, conductor, and theatre director, best known for his revolutionary approach to opera, which he termed "music drama." Unlike most composers, Wagner wrote both the libretto and music for his works, creating a total work of art (Gesamtkunstwerk) that seamlessly combined poetry, music, drama, and visual spectacle. His use of leitmotifs—musical themes associated with characters, emotions, or ideas—transformed the storytelling power of music and influenced generations of composers.

Wagner’s Most Celebrated Works

The Ring Cycle: A Monument of Operatic Art

Wagner’s epic Der Ring des Nibelungen (The Ring of the Nibelung) is a four-opera cycle inspired by Norse mythology, considered one of the greatest achievements in classical music:

  • Das Rheingold (1869) – The foundation of the saga, introducing the mythical world of gods and mortals.
  • Die Walküre (1870) – Features the legendary "Ride of the Valkyries," one of the most famous orchestral works ever written.
  • Siegfried (1876) – The heroic journey of a fearless warrior, marked by powerful themes.
  • Götterdämmerung (1876) – The dramatic conclusion of the cycle, depicting the downfall of the gods.

Other Operatic Masterpieces

Wagner’s operas pushed musical boundaries, both dramatically and harmonically:

  • Tristan und Isolde (1865) – A revolutionary work that introduced extreme chromaticism, influencing modern music.
  • Lohengrin (1850) – Known for the ethereal "Bridal Chorus" ("Here Comes the Bride").
  • Tannhäuser (1845) – A tale of love, redemption, and divine struggle, featuring the famous Overture and "Pilgrim’s Chorus."
  • The Flying Dutchman (1843) – A dark and stormy opera exploring fate and salvation.
  • Parsifal (1882) – Wagner’s final opera, a deeply spiritual and mystical masterpiece.

Orchestral Innovations and Influence

Wagner’s rich harmonies, expanded orchestration, and use of chromaticism shaped the future of classical music, inspiring composers such as Mahler, Strauss, and even film score composers of the 20th century. His concept of the leitmotif remains a foundational technique in film music today.

Wagner’s Enduring Legacy

Wagner’s operas remain some of the most ambitious and transformative works in Western music. His compositions redefined the possibilities of opera, influencing both classical and contemporary music. The Bayreuth Festival, founded by Wagner himself, continues to stage his operas annually, attracting audiences from around the world.

Richard Wagner

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  • Richard Strauss: The Nash Ensemble – Metamorphosen, Capriccio, Piano Quartet / Hyperion Audio CD 2007 / CDA67574 Richard Strauss: The Nash Ensemble – Metamorphosen, Capriccio, Piano Quartet / Hyperion Audio CD 2007 / CDA67574
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    Richard Strauss: The Nash Ensemble – Metamorphosen, Capriccio, Piano Quartet / Hyperion Audio CD 2007 / CDA67574

    Hyperion
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    Richard Strauss: The Nash Ensemble – Metamorphosen, Capriccio, Piano Quartet / Hyperion Audio CD 2007 / CDA67574 UPC 034571175744     Label: Hyperion – CDA67574 Format: CD,...
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  • Lorin Maazel, Symphonieorchester Des Bayerischen Rundfunks - Richard Strauss: Till Eulenspiegels Lustige Streiche, Ein Heldenleben / RCA Red Seal Audio CD 1999 / 09026 68775 2 Lorin Maazel, Symphonieorchester Des Bayerischen Rundfunks - Richard Strauss: Till Eulenspiegels Lustige Streiche, Ein Heldenleben / RCA Red Seal Audio CD 1999 / 09026 68775 2
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    Lorin Maazel, Symphonieorchester Des Bayerischen Rundfunks - Richard Strauss: Till Eulenspiegels Lustige Streiche, Ein Heldenleben / RCA Red Seal Audio CD 1999 / 09026 68775 2

    $19.81
    Lorin Maazel, Symphonieorchester Des Bayerischen Rundfunks - Richard Strauss: Till Eulenspiegels Lustige Streiche, Ein Heldenleben / RCA Red Seal Audio CD 1999 / 09026 68775 2 UPC 090266877522   Lorin Varencove Maazel (* 6...
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  • Schweitzer, Wieland: Alceste - Opernauffuhrung zum Anna Amalia Jahr - Simone Schneider, Christoph Genz, Cyndia Sieden, Josef Wagner, Concerto Köln, Michael Hofstetter / Berlin Classics 2x Audio CD 2008 / 0016222BC Schweitzer, Wieland: Alceste - Opernauffuhrung zum Anna Amalia Jahr - Simone Schneider, Christoph Genz, Cyndia Sieden, Josef Wagner, Concerto Köln, Michael Hofstetter / Berlin Classics 2x Audio CD 2008 / 0016222BC
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    Schweitzer, Wieland: Alceste - Opernauffuhrung zum Anna Amalia Jahr - Simone Schneider, Christoph Genz, Cyndia Sieden, Josef Wagner, Concerto Köln, Michael Hofstetter / Berlin Classics 2x Audio CD 2008 / 0016222BC

    Berlin Classics
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      Schweitzer, Wieland: Alceste - Opernauffuhrung zum Anna Amalia Jahr - Simone Schneider, Christoph Genz, Cyndia Sieden, Josef Wagner, Concerto Köln, Michael Hofstetter / Berlin Classics 2x Audio CD 2008 / 0016222BC UPC...
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  • Bruckner: Symphonies Nos. 6 & 9, Wagner: Parsifal Prelude & Siegfried Idyll - Gewandhausorchester, Andris Nelsons / Deutsche Grammophon 2x Audio CD 2019 / 483 6659 Bruckner: Symphonies Nos. 6 & 9, Wagner: Parsifal Prelude & Siegfried Idyll - Gewandhausorchester, Andris Nelsons / Deutsche Grammophon 2x Audio CD 2019 / 483 6659
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    Bruckner: Symphonies Nos. 6 & 9, Wagner: Parsifal Prelude & Siegfried Idyll - Gewandhausorchester, Andris Nelsons / Deutsche Grammophon 2x Audio CD 2019 / 483 6659

    $24.91
      Bruckner: Symphonies Nos. 6 & 9, Wagner: Parsifal Prelude & Siegfried Idyll - Gewandhausorchester, Andris Nelsons / Deutsche Grammophon 2x Audio CD 2019 / 483 6659 UPC 028948366590   Josef Anton...
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  • Wagner: Der Ring Des Nibelungen - Bernard Haitink, Symphonieorchester Des Bayerischen Rundfunks / EMI Classics 14x Audio CD, Box Set 2008 Stereo / 5099951947927 Wagner: Der Ring Des Nibelungen - Bernard Haitink, Symphonieorchester Des Bayerischen Rundfunks / EMI Classics 14x Audio CD, Box Set 2008 Stereo / 5099951947927
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    Wagner: Der Ring Des Nibelungen - Bernard Haitink, Symphonieorchester Des Bayerischen Rundfunks / EMI Classics 14x Audio CD, Box Set 2008 Stereo / 5099951947927

    $349.91
      Wagner: Der Ring Des Nibelungen - Bernard Haitink, Symphonieorchester Des Bayerischen Rundfunks / EMI Classics 14x Audio CD, Box Set 2008 Stereo UPC 5099951947927   Der Ring des Nibelungen (The Ring of the...
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  • Wagner - Gotterdammerung; Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg (excerpts); Siegfried-Idyll - Budapest Festival Orchestra, Ivan Fischer, Petra Lang (soprano) / Channel Classics Audio CD Stereo 2013 / CCS SA 32713 Wagner - Gotterdammerung; Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg (excerpts); Siegfried-Idyll - Budapest Festival Orchestra, Ivan Fischer, Petra Lang (soprano) / Channel Classics Audio CD Stereo 2013 / CCS SA 32713
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    Wagner - Gotterdammerung; Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg (excerpts); Siegfried-Idyll - Budapest Festival Orchestra, Ivan Fischer, Petra Lang (soprano) / Channel Classics Audio CD Stereo 2013 / CCS SA 32713

    Channel Classics
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    Wagner - Gotterdammerung; Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg (excerpts); Siegfried-Idyll - Budapest Festival Orchestra, Ivan Fischer, Petra Lang (soprano) / Channel Classics Audio CD Stereo 2013 / CCS SA 32713 UPC 723385327134 Product...
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  • Richard Wagner - Die Walküre: Atto I - Atto II (Beginning) - Nilsson, Vickers, London, London Symphony Orchestra, Erich Leinsdorf / Lyrica Audio CD 1996 / LRC 01032 Richard Wagner - Die Walküre: Atto I - Atto II (Beginning) - Nilsson, Vickers, London, London Symphony Orchestra, Erich Leinsdorf / Lyrica Audio CD 1996 / LRC 01032
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    Richard Wagner - Die Walküre: Atto I - Atto II (Beginning) - Nilsson, Vickers, London, London Symphony Orchestra, Erich Leinsdorf

    $19.99
    Richard Wagner - Die Walküre: Atto I - Atto II (Beginning) - Nilsson, Vickers, London, London Symphony Orchestra, Erich Leinsdorf / Lyrica Audio CD 1996 / LRC 01032 UPC 8014394401321   Product Details: Label: Lyrica – LRC...
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  • Karajan - Richard Strauss: Die Frau Ohne Schatten - Thomas, Rysanek, Hoffman, Berry, Ludwig, Wunderlich, Popp, Wiener Staatsoper, Wien 11. 6. 1964 / Hunt Productions 3x Audio CD 1989 / 3 CDKAR 207 Karajan - Richard Strauss: Die Frau Ohne Schatten - Thomas, Rysanek, Hoffman, Berry, Ludwig, Wunderlich, Popp, Wiener Staatsoper, Wien 11. 6. 1964 / Hunt Productions 3x Audio CD 1989 / 3 CDKAR 207
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    Karajan - Richard Strauss: Die Frau Ohne Schatten - Thomas, Rysanek, Hoffman, Berry, Ludwig, Wunderlich, Popp, Wiener Staatsoper, Wien 11. 6. 1964 / Hunt Productions 3x Audio CD 1989 / 3 CDKAR 207

    $39.99
      Karajan - Richard Strauss: Die Frau Ohne Schatten - Thomas, Rysanek, Hoffman, Berry, Ludwig, Wunderlich, Popp, Wiener Staatsoper, Wien 11. 6. 1964 / Hunt Productions 3x Audio CD 1989  3 CDKAR 207 Made in Italy ADDNew digital...
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  • Richard Wagner: Das Rheingold - Berliner Philharmoniker, Herbert von Karajan / The Originals / Deutsche Grammophon 2x Audio CD, Box Set, Stereo / 457 781-2 Richard Wagner: Das Rheingold - Berliner Philharmoniker, Herbert von Karajan / The Originals / Deutsche Grammophon 2x Audio CD, Box Set, Stereo / 457 781-2
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    Richard Wagner: Das Rheingold - Berliner Philharmoniker, Herbert von Karajan / The Originals / Deutsche Grammophon 2x Audio CD, Box Set, Stereo / 457 781-2

    $149.91
      Richard Wagner: Das Rheingold - Berliner Philharmoniker, Herbert von Karajan / The Originals / Deutsche Grammophon 2x Audio CD, Box Set, Stereo / 457 781-2 UPC 028945778129   !!! Condition of CD is USED - LIKE NEW !!!   Das...
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  • Richard Wagner: Die Meistersinger Von Nürnberg - Hotter, Kupper, Treptow, Kusche, Kuen, E. Jochum / München 1949 / Myto Records 4x Audio CD 1994 / 944.109 Richard Wagner: Die Meistersinger Von Nürnberg - Hotter, Kupper, Treptow, Kusche, Kuen, E. Jochum / München 1949 / Myto Records 4x Audio CD 1994 / 944.109
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    Richard Wagner: Die Meistersinger Von Nürnberg - Hotter, Kupper, Treptow, Kusche, Kuen, E. Jochum / München 1949 / Myto Records 4x Audio CD 1994 / 944.109

    $69.91
      Richard Wagner: Die Meistersinger Von Nürnberg - Hotter, Kupper, Treptow, Kusche, Kuen, E. Jochum / München 1949 / Myto Records 4x Audio CD 1994 / 944.109 UPC 8014399001090   Die Meistersinger von...
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  • Richard Strauss: Salome - Christel Goltz, Josef Herrmann, Bernd Aldenhoff, Inger Karén, Staatskapelle Dresden, Joseph Keilberth / Berlin Classics 2x Audio CD 1992 / BC 2062-2 Richard Strauss: Salome - Christel Goltz, Josef Herrmann, Bernd Aldenhoff, Inger Karén, Staatskapelle Dresden, Joseph Keilberth / Berlin Classics 2x Audio CD 1992 / BC 2062-2
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    Richard Strauss: Salome - Christel Goltz, Josef Herrmann, Bernd Aldenhoff, Inger Karén, Staatskapelle Dresden, Joseph Keilberth / Berlin Classics 2x Audio CD 1992 / BC 2062-2

    Berlin Classics
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        Richard Strauss: Salome - Christel Goltz, Josef Herrmann, Bernd Aldenhoff, Inger Karén, Staatskapelle Dresden, Joseph Keilberth / Berlin Classics 2x Audio CD 1992 / BC 2062-2 UPC 782124206222   "Richard Strauss: Salome"...
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  • Richard Wagner: Die Meistersinger Von Nürnberg (highlights) - Dietrich Fisher-Dieskau, Placido Domingo, Roland Hermann, Horst R. Laubenthal. Catarina Ligendza, Christa Ludwig / Deutsche Grammophon Audio CD Stereo / 445 470-2 Richard Wagner: Die Meistersinger Von Nürnberg (highlights) - Dietrich Fisher-Dieskau, Placido Domingo, Roland Hermann, Horst R. Laubenthal. Catarina Ligendza, Christa Ludwig / Deutsche Grammophon Audio CD Stereo / 445 470-2
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    Richard Wagner: Die Meistersinger Von Nürnberg (highlights) - Dietrich Fisher-Dieskau, Placido Domingo, Roland Hermann, Horst R. Laubenthal. Catarina Ligendza, Christa Ludwig / Deutsche Grammophon Audio CD Stereo / 445 470-2

    $29.91
      Richard Wagner: Die Meistersinger Von Nürnberg (highlights) - Dietrich Fisher-Dieskau, Placido Domingo, Roland Hermann, Horst R. Laubenthal. Catarina Ligendza, Christa Ludwig / Deutsche Grammophon Audio CD Stereo / 445 470-2 UPC...
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