The music of Wilhelm Richard Wagner’s operas thrill the heart and mind with wild and somber passages and, at times, delicate grace. It is the music of the gods, heroism, passion, grief and romance. We’ve known these emotions in the momentous highs and lows of our lives and we experience them again when we hear Wagner.

Wagner found a “universal voice” in his music, so it is no wonder that his compositions are still used today in film and television scores, even though the German composer lived from 1813 to 1882.

Two aspects of his work stand out when you consider this “universal voice.” Wagner’s storylines come from ancient myths and legends that have been passed down through the ages. These stories could never have survived had they not been compellingly true to human nature. Then, there is also Wagner’s gift for instilling harmony and emotion in his music and listener, while never forgetting that good drama must follow certain dynamic principles.

This performance is a compilation of Wagner’s most stirring and tumultuous as well as his more gentle and romantic music. Helping bring the music to life will be our soloist, soprano Erin Wood, the Toledo Opera Chorus, the University of Toledo Concert Chorale, and members of the Toledo Symphony Orchestra. 

When the concert’s over, we hope you will agree that it was “The Best Wagner Concert Ever!”