An Introduction to Wagner
An Introduction to Wagner
By Stephen Johnson
(avg)
The Ring of the Nibelung
From: Naxos
CD No: 8.558184-85
Wagner's epic The Ring of the Nibelung, consisting of four
operas and taking around 15 hours to unfold, is arguably the most
adventurous operatic and theatrical work ever written, taking the
audience through a whirlwind of emotion.
Its complexity - woven into the plot through the perfectionism of
Wagner's composition - can often confuse and even deter
audiences without the aid of an instruction manual to each
leitmotif and moral suggestion.
This introduction, part of a wider series called opera explained on
Naxos' educational range, is thankfully a worthy accompaniment
for any opera lover wishing to better understand the plot
surrounding the work. Here, narrator Stephen Johnson, an eminent
music writer and critic, deals with each opera in turn.
Johnson looks at the plot synopsis and many noteworthy features of
the music, complete with musical examples highlighting each point,
allowing the listener to follow the plot and giving an astute
glance at Wagner's working.
The beginning of the introduction is a brief section dealing with
the background to the Ring's conception and social and musical
factors such as the 'role of the orchestra'. This also
gives useful background to the work and sets the pace and tone
nicely.
Each section is clearly marked in the booklet, which also gives
useful background information to Wagner and the work - and is well
worth the read itself.
It does become difficult at times to distinguish which track or
topic is playing as there are no breaks between tracks - though
this allows for seamless movement between acts.
On the whole, this is a very good and astute introduction for
anybody wishing to experience The Ring for the first time or
wishing to delve a little deeper. Marie Frances
Hopkins
This review was submitted by a Muso reader and the opinions expressed reflect solely the opinions of the writer, not those of Muso magazine or its publisher. Muso cannot guarantee the accuracy of any information provided
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Decent review. I agree with much of what you have said here, especially the part about the collectors booklet, which was a riveting read.