Wagner: Extraits d'opéras & Wesendonck-Lieder

Immerse yourself in the timeless genius of Richard Wagner with this captivating collection of operatic excerpts and songs. Released on January 1, 1961, under the BNF Collection label, this album offers a concise yet powerful journey through some of Wagner's most celebrated works. Spanning a mere 41 minutes, it's a perfect introduction for both newcomers and seasoned fans of classical and opera genres.

The album opens with two enchanting pieces from "Lohengrin," showcasing the ethereal vocals of Elsa in "Elsa's Dream" and "Elsa’s Song to the Breezes." It then transitions to a dramatic excerpt from "The Valkyrie," featuring Sieglinde's impassioned aria. The mystical and profound "Parsifal" is represented by Kundry's haunting melody.

The second half of the album is dedicated to the "Wesendonck-Lieder," a cycle of five songs composed by Wagner and orchestrated by Felix Mottl. These songs, inspired by poems by Mathilde Wesendonck, offer a more intimate and lyrical exploration of Wagner's musical prowess.

This album is a testament to Wagner's enduring influence and the timeless beauty of his compositions. Whether you're a long-time admirer or new to his work, this collection promises a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Richard Wagner, born in Leipzig, Germany, in 1813, is one of the most influential and revolutionary figures in the history of opera. Known for his groundbreaking compositions and innovative approach to music drama, Wagner's works are celebrated for their profound emotional depth and complex narratives. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Wagner wrote both the libretto and the music for his operas, allowing him to create a seamless fusion of poetry, music, and drama. His concept of the Gesamtkunstwerk, or "total work of art," aimed to integrate all aspects of the theatrical experience, making his operas a unique and immersive journey for the audience. Wagner's most famous work, the epic four-opera cycle "Der Ring des Nibelungen," is a testament to his visionary genius and remains a cornerstone of the operatic repertoire. Throughout his career, Wagner's contributions to music and theater have left an indelible mark on the world of classical music, making him a composer whose works continue to inspire and captivate audiences today.