Richard Wagner 200th Anniversary celebration.

During 2013, the world celebrates the 200th birthday of German composer Richard Wagner. He is famed for his operatic compositions, especially his opera cycle “The Ring of the Nibelung.” He left his mark in the classical music world by employing leitmotifs in which a musical phrase recurs in association with a certain character, location or concept. His complex style of composition infused with drama heavily influenced German culture and music.

As the world’s classical music lovers mark the birth of this titan of opera, special excursions, cruises and festivals are planned throughout the year to showcase Wagner’s works. His operas have evoked powerful feelings among listeners. Fans and those new to opera will find his major masterpieces such as “Parsifal,” “Lohengrin,” and all four operas that constitute the “The Ring of the Nibelung” cycle.

Wagner Influenced German Culture and Music.

Born in Leipzig, Germany, Wagner’s career was at its height of popularity in 1849, when several German states rose in revolt against the German Confederation. During this time, Wagner began drafting an opera about Siegfried, a major figure in German mythology. Taking inspiration from ancient epic tales, wagner decided to extend the concept into “The Ring of the Nibelung.” The composer was instrumental in the rediscovery of ancient German culture.

Wagner also wrote extensive essays on art and how it should be responsive to the needs of the people; and, during the 1860s, he dictated his autobiography to his wife Cosima von Bulow. In 1865, wagner found sudden fame with the premiere of “Tristan and Isolde.” Fans formed Wagner Societies and young composers flocked to his new approach to opera and his unequaled orchestration. Reveling in his fame and the laurels his work received, he decided that the full “Ring” cycle should be performed at a national theater. With major funding by Bavarian king Ludwig II, Wagner chose the town of Bayreuth as the site of his theater. So begins the start of the Wagner Festival.

The World-Renowned Bayreuth Festival

The most famous Wagner festival is the Bayreuth Festival, which takes place each year in the town of Bayreuth. The town is situated on the Red Main River. Wagner himself oversaw the design of the theater, known as Bayreuth Festspielhaus. People from around the world make pilgrimages to the festival each year. To enjoy the sights and sounds of the Bayreuth Festival, contact us today.