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Ring of the Nibelung: Opera Explained

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Ring of the Nibelung: Opera Explained

By: Stephen Johnson
Narrated by: Stephen Johnson
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About this listen

Wagner’s Ring cycle is the most ambitious work in the history of music: four operas that combine to tell a single epic story. Based in legend, it has become a legend in its own right: a supreme challenge for conductors, singers, opera producers, and indeed for audiences. But for all its grandeur and complexity, The Ring is far more accessible than many music lovers think.

This audiobook guide explains the basics of the plot, profiles the leading characters, and shows how Wagner’s revolutionary music adds fascinating layers of meaning and psychological insight, as well as providing some of the most stirring and intoxicating moments in the entire operatic repertoire.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.

©2007 Naxos AudioBooks (P)2007 Naxos AudioBooks Music Opera

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Editor reviews

As part of the Opera Explained series, Stephen Johnson takes a look at, what he calls, "the biggest and most ambitious work in the history of music": Wagner’s Ring of the Nibelung. The epic four part opera which draws upon Nordic and Germanic legend has gained a prestigious status, with dedicated followers eager to sit through the lengthy experience.

Johnson discusses the story of gods and men, passion and violence; the history of the piece, with its notorious and oft deliberated connections to Nazi Germany; and the music itself, which transcends any negative context it or its author might have been associated with. Johnson’s measured analysis and thoughtful reflection is interspersed with clips from the opera that will delight any Ring fanatic or opera enthusiast.

All stars
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A very good overview of the opera - just the right balance between narrative and music. Excellent narration by Stephen Johnson.

Excellent

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A well read and well presented piece that not only covers the stories of the four operas, but gives useful insights into the structure of the music, the recurring musical themes and the innovations that Wagner introduced. I listened to this in conjunction with a DVD set of the complete cycle and it increased my understanding and enjoyment of the works greatly.

Clearing Up The Legend

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I should have listened to this before seeing wagner s operas. So eye opening and fascinating

I should have listened to this thirty years ago.

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What can I say ? This introduction to Wagner's Ring Cycle is superb. All the themes are there, described in great detail and panache. The music selection is spot on - absolutely brilliant. I cannot recommend this audio highly enough.

Brilliant !

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Wagner's great work can appear daunting to the novice: you don't know how to approach it or where to start. This audio book is the perfect answer to your dilemma. I have found it to be an excellent guide and introduction. The mixture of narrative, explanation and musical illustration is very informative and interesting. I feel now that I have the confidence to tackle the entire work.. I would recommend everyone to listen to this first: you will not be disappointed.

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