A masterpiece by Richard Wagner. Popular classical music.
We’ve put together a collection of masterpieces by Richard Wagner, the 19th-century German composer known as the “King of Music Drama”! He wrote the librettos for most of his own operas and was known not only as a composer but also as a man of letters, making him one of the figures who exerted broad influence across Europe in the latter half of the 19th century.
True to his title as the King of Music Drama, he wrote a great many music dramas; however, he also left works such as the Symphony in C major, as well as numerous piano pieces and songs.
Those familiar with wind bands may recognize Wagner’s name from “Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral.” This time, we’ve selected some of Wagner’s greatest works.
Please give them a listen!
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Masterpieces by Richard Wagner. Popular classical music (41–50)
Siegfried IdyllRichard Wagner
It is a piece that Wagner sent to his wife as a gift.
It seems to be filled with memories of the Wagner couple.
The melody is very charming—calm, delicate, and even expansive.
I believe it expresses the wonderful love between the two of them.
Tannhäuser: OvertureRichard Wagner
The Tannhäuser Overture is performed in the three-act opera Tannhäuser and the Song Contest at the Wartburg.
It evokes images of grand, majestic nature.
The opening sounds from the clarinets, bassoons, and horns are captivating.
The solid, resonant tones of the strings and winds are a highlight of this piece.
Zürich’s Viel Leiebchen WWV 88Richard Wagner
Feuerreifchen of Zurich, WWV 88, is a piano work brimming with rustic, gentle charm.
Composed by Richard Wagner during his exile in Zurich, Switzerland, this piece is a romantic waltz that, despite its brief duration of about 1 minute and 10 seconds, leaves a deep impression.
If you enjoy the contrast with the music dramas he is known for, this piece is a top recommendation! Anyone who loves the piano will be touched by its delicate melody and sense a different side of Wagner.
Prologue to Act I from Die Meistersinger von NürnbergRichard Wagner
When it comes to iconic pieces that add splendor to weddings and receptions, many people probably think of the Prelude to Act I from Richard Wagner’s opera Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg.
Premiered in Munich in June 1868, this work is distinguished by its rich orchestration.
The brilliant melodies woven by a variety of instruments—piccolo, flute, oboe, and more—create an atmosphere perfectly suited to celebrating the couple’s new beginning.
Reflecting its story set in 16th-century Nuremberg, the energetic music of the Meistersingers is introduced, conveying a deep affection for German culture.
The Ring of the Nibelung: Götterdämmerung – Dawn and Siegfried’s Journey to the RhineRichard Wagner
The Bayreuth Festival is a music festival that Wagner created to stage his own work, The Ring of the Nibelung, and it is held every year from late July to August.
The four-part Ring cycle was composed by Wagner between the ages of 35 and 61, and since a performance takes about 15 hours, it is presented over at least four days.
Piano Sonata in A-flat major, WWV 85Richard Wagner
Composed by the Romantic master Richard Wagner, the Piano Sonata in A-flat major, WWV 85, is a piano work of delicate beauty that stands apart from the operas and music dramas for which he is widely known.
It is said that he wrote this piece imbued with profound feelings for Mathilde Wesendonck.
That backstory further illuminates the music’s calm yet passionate passages.
Highly recommended for all piano lovers, especially those interested in classical and Romantic-era music.
Experience a quiet narrative told through the piano—distinct from the dramatic world of his music dramas.
Polka in G major, WWV 84Richard Wagner
When we think of Richard Wagner, we usually picture him as a composer of operas and music dramas, but the Polka in G major, WWV 84, offers a glimpse of his multifaceted talent and more personal side.
Composed in 1853 to celebrate his 40th birthday and inspired by his feelings for a particular beautiful woman, the piece conveys Wagner’s characteristic romantic sonorities.
Suggesting a warm, private side, this work seems perfectly suited not to a grand stage, but to a gentle evening in a domestic salon.