Richard Wagner Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

‘O du, mein holder Abendstern’ (Evening Star Song) from the opera TannhäuserRichard Wagner50rank/position

From Wagner's 'Tannhäuser': 'Song to the Evening Star' — An opera and German lied bel canto vocalist, Takanori Akiyama, a graduate of Tokyo College of Music

Let me introduce a beautiful aria from Richard Wagner’s Tannhäuser.

Sung by a baritone, this piece captivates listeners with its profound emotion and exquisite melody.

It begins with an evocation of twilight and proceeds to a prayer to the Evening Star.

The lyrics, which wish for a friend’s soul to depart in peace, carry themes of pure love and self-sacrifice.

Since its premiere in Dresden in October 1845, this work has continued to be beloved by many.

Its lyrical melody and deep emotional impact make it recommended not only for classical music enthusiasts but for anyone seeking music that resonates with the heart.

Grand March from the opera TannhäuserRichard Wagner51rank/position

Richard Wagner: Tannhäuser – Einzug der Gäste

Characterized by its grand and resplendent style, this piece is a masterpiece that heightens the scene of the song contest held at Wartburg Castle.

The majestic, powerful sonorities of the orchestra captivate listeners.

Symbolically expressing the protagonist’s inner turmoil between sensual love and pure love, it adds depth to the story.

Among the opera’s numbers, it is particularly popular and is often performed on its own, encapsulating the allure of Romantic music.

It is a highly recommended piece for a wide audience—from newcomers to classical music to opera and orchestral enthusiasts.

Since its premiere in Dresden in October 1845, this beloved classic has continued to enchant countless listeners—please enjoy it.

“Aria of the Hall of Song” from the opera TannhäuserRichard Wagner52rank/position

Tannhauser: ‘Dich, Teure halle’ – Deborah Voigt

“Dich, teure Halle” (Elisabeth’s aria) from Wagner’s opera Tannhäuser.

Soprano: American opera singer Deborah Voigt.

Orchestra: The Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, conducted by American conductor and pianist James Lawrence Levine.

Overture to the opera ‘Tannhäuser’Richard Wagner53rank/position

Tannhäuser Overture / Tannhäuser Overture: Wagner

Beginning with a majestic chorale, this overture brilliantly distills the opera’s overarching themes.

The alternating appearance of the “Pilgrims’ Chorus” and the “Venusberg music” symbolizes the inner turmoil of the protagonist, Tannhäuser, and deeply moves the listener.

The conflict between faith and desire, and the ultimate theme of redemption, are expressed through grand, powerful music.

Premiered in Dresden in October 1845, the piece was not initially understood, but after subsequent revisions it has become a widely beloved masterpiece.

It is recommended not only for opera enthusiasts but also for music lovers seeking monumental sound and profound emotional expression.

Overture to the opera RienziRichard Wagner54rank/position

Wagner: Rienzi – Ouvertüre ∙ hr-Sinfonieorchester ∙ Paavo Järvi

The overture to the opera Rienzi.

Its full title is Rienzi, the Last of the Tribunes, and it is based on the real 14th-century Roman politician Cola di Rienzi.

Performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by the German conductor Klaus Tennstedt.

Bridal Chorus from the opera LohengrinRichard Wagner55rank/position

Wagner “Lohengrin” Wedding March – Robert Shaw Chorale

It’s a piece you’ve probably heard at least once, as it’s often performed at weddings.

The story is set in the Duchy of Brabant and revolves around various intrigues concerning the throne.

This song is sung during the wedding ceremony of Lohengrin, the Knight of the Swan, and Elsa, the princess of the Duchy of Brabant.

Scenes from Lohengrin are depicted inside Neuschwanstein Castle, which is said to have inspired Disneyland’s Cinderella Castle, and you can still see them today.

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Bridal Chorus from the opera LohengrinRichard Wagner56rank/position

Bridal Chorus from Lohengrin by R. Wagner, by the Hitachi Opera Chorus

This is the “Bridal Chorus” (“Wedding March”) from the opera Lohengrin.

It is performed in Act 3, Scene 1, and is as famous as Felix Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March.” It is often played on the organ at weddings.

Although it’s also known as the “Bridal Chorus,” the couple who marry in the opera ultimately part ways, so in Germany some churches even prohibit playing this piece on the organ at weddings.

These two works are known as the two great wedding marches.

Richard Wagner and Mendelssohn were contemporaries active in Germany, making them both peers and rivals.

Mendelssohn’s piece is faster in tempo, lively, and brilliant, while Wagner’s is slower and more solemn in character.

If you plan to use one at a wedding, I recommend comparing them and learning the background first—your choice might change once you do.