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)
Polonaise in D major, Op. 2, WWV 23bRichard Wagner
Polonaise in D major, Op.
2, WWV 23b, composed by the young Richard Wagner in 1831, is a fine work that distills the charm of his early period.
While inheriting the traditional form of the polonaise, this piece for piano four hands shines with Wagner’s distinctive musical expression.
Though Wagner is best known for his operas, this piano work reveals his musical versatility and classical beauty.
Its lively rhythms and brilliant melodies are sure to captivate both fellow performers and audiences alike.
Highly recommended for piano enthusiasts and for anyone eager to discover a new side of Wagner!
Richard Wagner’s masterpieces. Popular classical music (51–60)
Polonaise in D major, WWV 23aRichard Wagner
When people hear the name Richard Wagner, most think of grand operas and music dramas.
However, his oeuvre also includes unexpectedly gentle and approachable piano pieces, such as the Polonaise in D major, WWV 23a.
Composed in 1831 by a young Wagner, this work was written for solo piano and, despite its brief length of about three minutes, clearly showcases his musical gifts.
Adopting the polonaise dance form, it reveals glimpses of Wagner’s characteristic delicacy and elegance amid its brilliance.
It is a piece that can be enjoyed by a wide range of listeners, from those just beginning the piano to advanced players.
ValkyrieRichard Wagner
Conducted by Hans Knappertsbusch and performed by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
Raised in an environment rich in theater and music, Wagner was inspired by Beethoven and created the “music drama,” an opera in the form of a symphony.
Ride of the ValkyriesRichard Wagner
A piece used in Richard Wagner’s music drama Die Walküre, by the composer also known as the “King of Music Drama,” who was famous not only as a theorist and man of letters but also for writing most of his own librettos.
It is the music that plays as the prelude to Act III, evolving from an opening that gives a sense that something is about to begin into a grand, expansive style—an arrangement that showcases the dramatic dynamics unique to the orchestra.
In Japan, it has been featured in numerous TV programs and events, including commercials.
Whether you’re a symphony enthusiast or a newcomer to classical music, it’s one of those staple classical numbers that will stir your heart.
Grand Sonata in A major, Op. 4, WWV 26Richard Wagner
Composed in his youth, Richard Wagner’s Grand Sonata in A major, Op.
4 (WWV 26) is a work from when he was just 20 years old, and it reveals the budding expressive power and musical inquisitiveness that he would later bring to his music dramas.
In particular, the second movement already shows the depth of emotion and richness of expression characteristic of Wagner.
Of course, not only listening to this piece but also trying to perform it yourself can lead to a deeper understanding of the young Wagner’s musical adventure and his compositional journey.
Highly recommended not only for pianists but also for fans of classical music!
Fantasia in F-sharp minor, Op. 3, WWV 22Richard Wagner
Composer Richard Wagner, emblematic of German Romanticism and best known for his sophisticated operas, reveals a different side in his piano piece Fantasy in F-sharp minor, Op.
3, WWV 22.
Composed in 1831 and only published many years later in 1905, this work offers a glimpse into Wagner’s rich musical talent in the realm of piano music.
The piece is characterized largely by a delicate, gentle tone, setting it apart from the passionate musicality typically associated with Wagner.
It’s a must-listen for piano enthusiasts and anyone interested in exploring another facet of Wagner’s artistry.
Prelude to Act I from the opera ‘Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg’Richard Wagner
The piece has been used as background music in commercials for Cygames’ GRANBLUE FANTASY, McDonald’s Happy Meal, and Seven-Eleven Japan’s Seven Gold “Kin no Beer,” among others.
Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg is a musical play.
While it has a strong comedic tone, Wagner’s genius is clearly expressed.
True to its comedic nature, it features bright, up-tempo melodies.
Amid the splendor, it contains criticism of certain things, prompting listeners to reflect in various ways.
