Some believe him to be one of the most influential, and controversial, opera composers of our time. Best known for his operas Tannhauser, The Fly Dutchman, Tristan and Isolde and Ring Cycle, Wilhelm Richard Wagner was a German composer born in 1813. He wrote his first complete opera, The Fairies, at age 20. His compositions are described as “musical drama” because of his combination of theater, dance, lighting and music to create a masterpiece.
For those who have a passion for orchestra and opera, this 27 minute DVD program will let you listen to Wagner’s most popular pieces and explore what influences, both passionate and tragic, his personal life had on some of his most famous musical pieces. Wagner’s influence in both opera and theatrical scores. as well as literature and theatre, can still be heard and seen in today's productions.