Richard Wagner May 22,1813- February 13,1883 Born in Leipzig, Germany Early fascination with theatre Age 14- began writing plays Began studying composition Wrote opera AND libretti! 1833-Worked as a chorus master and produced operas began working as a music critic, director of Bethmann‘s theatre company

Richard Wagner May 22,1813- February 13, – married actress Minne Planner Held various jobs, fell into debt Moved to London, Paris and composed grand operas Rienzi, and The Flying Dutchman. Returned to Germany in 1842 when his operas were put on. Politically active and published writings. Had to flee to Switzerland avoid imprisonment.

Richard Wagner May 22,1813- February 13,1883 In Switzerland, published famous articles including Jewry in Music Began composing a cycle of ‘Music dramas’ which became the “Ring Cycle” (took over 25 years) During this time, he also composed Tristan and Isolde, and Die Meistersinger von Nuremberg. Invented “Wagner Tuba” built Bayreuth opera house for himself

The Tristan Chord

The Ring of the Nibelung Das Rheingold (The Rhinegold) Die Walküre (The Valkyrie) Siegfried Götterdämmerung (Twilight of the Gods) Use of ‘leitmotif’ (a recurring musical theme, associated with a particular person, place, or idea ) and concept of “Gesamtkunstwerk” (total artwork) which are new and unique to Wagner Symbolic story of desire for power. 15 hours total