Serendipity Talk: A Gentle Introduction to Richard Wagner

Richard Wagner was one of the most influential composers of all time, giving us operas of staggering power and greatly influencing concert music (and later film music) to this day. Although some find his operas long, loud, and boring, his music is often quite approachable and can be readily enjoyed.  This talk will provide an informative and entertaining introduction to Wagner’s fascinating life and career, highlighting his music with numerous performance excerpts from his operas. The talk will provide information about Wagner and his place in music, suitable for both those who know little about this essential composer and also those already interested in Wagner and his work.

Dan Sherman has presented many talks on concert music, film and film music, opera, and musical theatre to many groups in the Washington area, including OLLI at AU. He has long loved opera, especially the operas of Wagner, and has given talks on Wagner in performance to several Wagner societies, including the Wagner Society of Washington, of which he is a current board member.