Richard Wagner, The Life of

One of the key figures in the history of opera, Wagner was largely responsible for altering its orientation in the Nineteenth Century. His program of artistic reform, though not executed to the last detail, accelerated the trend towards organically conceived, through-composed structures, as well as influencing the development of the orchestra, of a new breed of singer, and of various aspects of theatrical practice. As the most influential composer during the second half of the …

… the most fascinating figures in Nineteenth Century music. His life and his music arouse passions like that of no other composer. Wagner's works are hated as much as they are worshiped in the world, even today. As a man, Wagner was prepared to sacrifice his family and friends in the cause of his own music, and he will never be known otherwise. But as a composer alone, he was a man of great genius.