Arthaus
1000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
By the end of World War II, the Abstract Expressionists had turned New York into a centre of the international art scene. The heterogeneous movement, with artists such as Willem de Kooning, Franz Kline and Helen Frankenthaler, provoked and inspired with an artistic sensibility drawn from European Modernism, the core of which was the expression of the spontaneous act of painting and subjective perception in abstract form.
By the end of World War II, the Abstract Expressionists had turned New York into a centre of the international art scene. The heterogeneous movement, with artists such as Willem de Kooning, Franz Kline and Helen Frankenthaler, provoked and inspired with an artistic sensibility drawn from European Modernism, the core of which was the expression of the spontaneous act of painting and subjective perception in abstract form.
1000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
American painting from the 1950's and 60's – emerged at a time when the country became a hub of international art. From the figurative movement to Colour Field painting and over to Pop Art, the authors present images, some of which were key works of their time, which document the diversity of American post-war art.
American painting from the 1950's and 60's – emerged at a time when the country became a hub of international art. From the figurative movement to Colour Field painting and over to Pop Art, the authors present images, some of which were key works of their time, which document the diversity of American post-war art.
1000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
Baroque painting of the 17th century is notable for its overwhelming splendour and pathos. In the age of the plague, religious wars and the excesses of the nobility, art served the aims of the Counter-Reformation and Absolutism. The glory of this epoch shines through, between lust for life and the pain of death – thanks to great masters such as van Dyck, Rubens, Velázquez, Rembrandt and Caravaggio.
Baroque painting of the 17th century is notable for its overwhelming splendour and pathos. In the age of the plague, religious wars and the excesses of the nobility, art served the aims of the Counter-Reformation and Absolutism. The glory of this epoch shines through, between lust for life and the pain of death – thanks to great masters such as van Dyck, Rubens, Velázquez, Rembrandt and Caravaggio.
1000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
The Bauhaus (1919-1933) is considered the most prestigious school of architecture, design and art. This film introduces five of the most important Bauhaus teachers, whose visions and art theories made the school an icon of reform, experimentation, and the avant-garde. Their works and teachings, derived from Bauhaus ideas, spread all over the world, and have greatly influenced the modernist style.
The Bauhaus (1919-1933) is considered the most prestigious school of architecture, design and art. This film introduces five of the most important Bauhaus teachers, whose visions and art theories made the school an icon of reform, experimentation, and the avant-garde. Their works and teachings, derived from Bauhaus ideas, spread all over the world, and have greatly influenced the modernist style.
1000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
Cubism and Futurism – at the beginning of the 20th Century these two art movements revolutionised Western ways of seeing. Sceptical of the observable reality of the time, the European artists gave form to the multifarious nature of their perception and captured the dynamics of modern life. Whether they were works that provoked media attention or just symphonies of colour – these masterpieces paved the way for modern art.
Cubism and Futurism – at the beginning of the 20th Century these two art movements revolutionised Western ways of seeing. Sceptical of the observable reality of the time, the European artists gave form to the multifarious nature of their perception and captured the dynamics of modern life. Whether they were works that provoked media attention or just symphonies of colour – these masterpieces paved the way for modern art.
1,000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
As early as the mid-1400s, painters from the Netherlands were famed for their landscapes, portraits and altarpieces, which displayed unprecedented naturalism, a breathtaking sense of spatiality, psychological intensity and detailed representation of fabrics. Works by van der Goes, tot Sint Jans, Memling, Patinier and van der Weyden illustrate the groundbreaking innovations of the Early Dutch School.
As early as the mid-1400s, painters from the Netherlands were famed for their landscapes, portraits and altarpieces, which displayed unprecedented naturalism, a breathtaking sense of spatiality, psychological intensity and detailed representation of fabrics. Works by van der Goes, tot Sint Jans, Memling, Patinier and van der Weyden illustrate the groundbreaking innovations of the Early Dutch School.
1000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
From Die Brucke (The Bridge) to Der Blaue Reiter (The Blue Rider) the authors trace the new art of Expressionism in Germany during the early 20th Century. Among others they showcase the key works of a North German oddball, a Bavarian animal lover and a man who had in fact dissociated himself from the Expressionists, but who could not escape their influence.
From Die Brucke (The Bridge) to Der Blaue Reiter (The Blue Rider) the authors trace the new art of Expressionism in Germany during the early 20th Century. Among others they showcase the key works of a North German oddball, a Bavarian animal lover and a man who had in fact dissociated himself from the Expressionists, but who could not escape their influence.
1,000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
In the late 18th century, in the wake of the rationalism of the Enlightenment and the sober clarity of Classicism, there arose a yearning for sensuality, the irrational and the fantastic. Romanticism emerged and took hold of art as well as literature, music and philosophy. In Germany, painters such as Friedrich, Richter, Dahl, Carus and Runge captured the new spirit of the times in their moving paintings.
In the late 18th century, in the wake of the rationalism of the Enlightenment and the sober clarity of Classicism, there arose a yearning for sensuality, the irrational and the fantastic. Romanticism emerged and took hold of art as well as literature, music and philosophy. In Germany, painters such as Friedrich, Richter, Dahl, Carus and Runge captured the new spirit of the times in their moving paintings.
1,000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
In 1874, a group of artists nicknamed the Impressionists scandalized Paris with its first exhibition. The spirit of these young en plein air painters, who declared that the essence of their art was about capturing the impression of the moment in the colourful play of light, was too revolutionary. Cassatt, Caillebotte, Liebermann, Kroyer and Edelfelt represented a worldwide revolt that ushered in modernism by breaking with conventional ways of seeing the world.
In 1874, a group of artists nicknamed the Impressionists scandalized Paris with its first exhibition. The spirit of these young en plein air painters, who declared that the essence of their art was about capturing the impression of the moment in the colourful play of light, was too revolutionary. Cassatt, Caillebotte, Liebermann, Kroyer and Edelfelt represented a worldwide revolt that ushered in modernism by breaking with conventional ways of seeing the world.
1000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
In 1400, the blossoming of Renaissance culture in Italy marked the beginning of a new era. Classical antiquity, humanism, great discoveries and inventions led to a revolutionary intellectual transformation. Man became the measure of all things and the religious mediaeval world view was supplanted. Profane themes such as the autonomous portrait gained importance and artists attained the status of genius for the first time.
In 1400, the blossoming of Renaissance culture in Italy marked the beginning of a new era. Classical antiquity, humanism, great discoveries and inventions led to a revolutionary intellectual transformation. Man became the measure of all things and the religious mediaeval world view was supplanted. Profane themes such as the autonomous portrait gained importance and artists attained the status of genius for the first time.
1000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
The anti-classical spirit of the Mannerists was awakened in the 16th century by religious and social changes. New masters such as Parmigianino, Massys, and Arcimboldo began distancing themselves from Renaissance ideals shaped by harmony. In a creative ecstasy, they staged their rebellion with formal exaggeration, tension-filled compositions, and expressive colours often used in erotic, metaphysical or bizarre scenes.
The anti-classical spirit of the Mannerists was awakened in the 16th century by religious and social changes. New masters such as Parmigianino, Massys, and Arcimboldo began distancing themselves from Renaissance ideals shaped by harmony. In a creative ecstasy, they staged their rebellion with formal exaggeration, tension-filled compositions, and expressive colours often used in erotic, metaphysical or bizarre scenes.
1000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
The Louvre, the seat of great French regents for centuries, is today one of the largest and most visited museums in the world. The invaluable collection, dating back to Jean, Duc de Berry (1340-1415), contains masterpieces from antiquity to the present day. Among its highlights are the museum pieces presented here.
The Louvre, the seat of great French regents for centuries, is today one of the largest and most visited museums in the world. The invaluable collection, dating back to Jean, Duc de Berry (1340-1415), contains masterpieces from antiquity to the present day. Among its highlights are the museum pieces presented here.
1,000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
Berlin's National Gallery was founded in 1861 with art bequeathed by the Swedish consul and banker Joachim H. W. Wagener. Now spread over various locations, it is considered one of the most prestigious and diverse collections of 19th, 20th, and 21st century art anywhere in the world. With masterpieces by Höch, Dix, Spitzweg, von Menzel and Schinkel, this video presents five of Berlin's most popular artistic treasures.
Berlin's National Gallery was founded in 1861 with art bequeathed by the Swedish consul and banker Joachim H. W. Wagener. Now spread over various locations, it is considered one of the most prestigious and diverse collections of 19th, 20th, and 21st century art anywhere in the world. With masterpieces by Höch, Dix, Spitzweg, von Menzel and Schinkel, this video presents five of Berlin's most popular artistic treasures.
1000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
In the early 16th century, the Italian Renaissance captivated the countries north of the Alps with its pioneering innovations and discoveries. In the context of the Reformation, the Italians' rediscovery of antique aesthetics and the northern Gothic tradition, artists such as Durer, Baldung Grien, Holbein the Younger, Cranach the Elder and Bruegel the Elder greatly influenced this glorious epoch.
In the early 16th century, the Italian Renaissance captivated the countries north of the Alps with its pioneering innovations and discoveries. In the context of the Reformation, the Italians' rediscovery of antique aesthetics and the northern Gothic tradition, artists such as Durer, Baldung Grien, Holbein the Younger, Cranach the Elder and Bruegel the Elder greatly influenced this glorious epoch.
1000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
Naturalism, party loyalty, and being close to the people – over the course of 40 years, Socialist Realism was decreed by GDR authorities with all manner of propagandistic slogans. Among the central figures of the art scene were Sitte, Mattheuer, Tübke, Heisig, and Metzkes. They drew their personal artistic positions and diverse means of expression from the tension between conformity and rebellion.
Naturalism, party loyalty, and being close to the people – over the course of 40 years, Socialist Realism was decreed by GDR authorities with all manner of propagandistic slogans. Among the central figures of the art scene were Sitte, Mattheuer, Tübke, Heisig, and Metzkes. They drew their personal artistic positions and diverse means of expression from the tension between conformity and rebellion.
1000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
In 1924, Andre Breton published the Surrealist Manifesto. It was the written constitution of a movement which, drawing on Sigmund Freud's psychoanalysis, espoused a higher reality of the subconscious and the world of dreams. Each of the five artists presented here gave form to these ideas in their own unique way – from Miro's world of symbolism and colour, to Tanguy's "landscape of the soul", to Dali's tangible dreamscapes.
In 1924, Andre Breton published the Surrealist Manifesto. It was the written constitution of a movement which, drawing on Sigmund Freud's psychoanalysis, espoused a higher reality of the subconscious and the world of dreams. Each of the five artists presented here gave form to these ideas in their own unique way – from Miro's world of symbolism and colour, to Tanguy's "landscape of the soul", to Dali's tangible dreamscapes.
1000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
Increasing industrialization and historicism in the Belle Époque gave rise to diverse anti-classical art movements. The Symbolists countered realistic depictions with the representation of dreams and subjective emotional states. At the same time, the decorative Jugendstil, with its postulation of the Gesamtkunstwerk and a planar, linear formal canon, presented a style which accorded with the Symbolists.
Increasing industrialization and historicism in the Belle Époque gave rise to diverse anti-classical art movements. The Symbolists countered realistic depictions with the representation of dreams and subjective emotional states. At the same time, the decorative Jugendstil, with its postulation of the Gesamtkunstwerk and a planar, linear formal canon, presented a style which accorded with the Symbolists.
1000 Masterpieces from the Great Museums of the World is one of the most successful TV series about art. The original, with improved image quality, takes us on a fascinating journey through the history of art. Comprehensively illustrated and compellingly presented – the well-known authors of five short art surveys provide a deeper insight into the masterpieces of painting.
Experience the art of Cologne throughout the centuries – with masterpieces from the Wallraf-Richartz-Museum and Museum Ludwig, this recording provides a glimpse into the diversity of Cologne's art treasures. The city's oldest museum, for example, showcases a mediaeval panel painting that is considered to be the Mona Lisa of late Gothic painting. The Museum Ludwig, which specialises in collecting modern and contemporary art, is represented by a portrait of a Pop Art superstar.
Experience the art of Cologne throughout the centuries – with masterpieces from the Wallraf-Richartz-Museum and Museum Ludwig, this recording provides a glimpse into the diversity of Cologne's art treasures. The city's oldest museum, for example, showcases a mediaeval panel painting that is considered to be the Mona Lisa of late Gothic painting. The Museum Ludwig, which specialises in collecting modern and contemporary art, is represented by a portrait of a Pop Art superstar.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
Gegen Ende des 2. Weltkrieges avancierte New York mit den abstrakten Expressionisten zu einem Zentrum der internationalen Kunstszene. Die heterogene Bewegung mit Künstlern wie Willem de Kooning, Franz Kline oder Helen Frankenthaler provozierte mit einem aus der europäischen Moderne hergeleiteten Kunstverständnis, dessen zentrales Anliegen der Ausdruck des spontanen Malprozesses und der subjektiven Empfindung in abstrakter Form war.
Gegen Ende des 2. Weltkrieges avancierte New York mit den abstrakten Expressionisten zu einem Zentrum der internationalen Kunstszene. Die heterogene Bewegung mit Künstlern wie Willem de Kooning, Franz Kline oder Helen Frankenthaler provozierte mit einem aus der europäischen Moderne hergeleiteten Kunstverständnis, dessen zentrales Anliegen der Ausdruck des spontanen Malprozesses und der subjektiven Empfindung in abstrakter Form war.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
Bereits Mitte des 15. Jahrhunderts begeisterten niederländische Maler in Landschaften, Porträts und Altarbildern mit einem unerhörten Naturrealismus, einer erstaunlichen Tiefenwirkung, psychologischer Eindringlichkeit und detaillierten Materialdarstellungen. Werke von van der Goes, tot Sint Jans, Memling, Patinier und van der Weyden zeigen beispielhaft die bahnbrechenden Neuerungen der altniederländischen Schule.
Bereits Mitte des 15. Jahrhunderts begeisterten niederländische Maler in Landschaften, Porträts und Altarbildern mit einem unerhörten Naturrealismus, einer erstaunlichen Tiefenwirkung, psychologischer Eindringlichkeit und detaillierten Materialdarstellungen. Werke von van der Goes, tot Sint Jans, Memling, Patinier und van der Weyden zeigen beispielhaft die bahnbrechenden Neuerungen der altniederländischen Schule.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
US-amerikanische Malerei der 1950er und 60er Jahre entstand zu einem Zeitpunkt als das Land zum Zentrum des internationalen Kunstgeschehens aufstieg. Von Figuration über Farbfeldmalerei bis Pop Art stellen die Autoren Bilder vor, die die Vielfalt der amerikanischen Nachkriegskunst dokumentieren und von denen einige zu Schlüsselwerken ihrer Zeit wurden.
US-amerikanische Malerei der 1950er und 60er Jahre entstand zu einem Zeitpunkt als das Land zum Zentrum des internationalen Kunstgeschehens aufstieg. Von Figuration über Farbfeldmalerei bis Pop Art stellen die Autoren Bilder vor, die die Vielfalt der amerikanischen Nachkriegskunst dokumentieren und von denen einige zu Schlüsselwerken ihrer Zeit wurden.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
Mit überwältigendem Prunk und Pathos beeindruckt die barocke Malerei des 17. Jahrhunderts. Im Zeitalter wütender Pest, blutiger Glaubenskriege und exzessiven Adels-Pomp tritt die Kunst in den Dienst von Gegenreformation und Absolutismus. Zwischen Lebenslust und Todespein strahlt der Ruhm und Glanzeiner Epoche – dank großartiger Meister wie van Dyck, Rubens, Velázquez, Rembrandt oder Caravaggio.
Mit überwältigendem Prunk und Pathos beeindruckt die barocke Malerei des 17. Jahrhunderts. Im Zeitalter wütender Pest, blutiger Glaubenskriege und exzessiven Adels-Pomp tritt die Kunst in den Dienst von Gegenreformation und Absolutismus. Zwischen Lebenslust und Todespein strahlt der Ruhm und Glanzeiner Epoche – dank großartiger Meister wie van Dyck, Rubens, Velázquez, Rembrandt oder Caravaggio.
1,000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
Das Bauhaus (1919-1933) gilt als die renommierteste Schule für Architektur, Design und Kunst. Vorgestellt werden fünf ihrer bedeutendsten Lehrmeister, die mit ihren Visionen und Kunsttheorien das Bauhaus zum Inbegriff von Reform, Experiment und Avantgarde machten. Weltweit verbreiteten ihre Werke und Lehren die teils modifizierten Bauhausideen und prägten entscheidend den Stil der Moderne.
Das Bauhaus (1919-1933) gilt als die renommierteste Schule für Architektur, Design und Kunst. Vorgestellt werden fünf ihrer bedeutendsten Lehrmeister, die mit ihren Visionen und Kunsttheorien das Bauhaus zum Inbegriff von Reform, Experiment und Avantgarde machten. Weltweit verbreiteten ihre Werke und Lehren die teils modifizierten Bauhausideen und prägten entscheidend den Stil der Moderne.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
Neben der vernunftgesteuerten Aufklärung und der nüchternen Klarheit des Klassizismus wuchs im späten 18. Jahrhundert die Sehnsucht nach Gefühl, Irrationalem und Phantastischem.
Die Romantik kam auf und ergriff die Kunst ebenso wie die Literatur, die Musik und die Philosophie. In Deutschland gaben Friedrich, Richter, Dahl, Carus und Runge diesem neuen Lebensgefühl in ergreifenden Bildern malerisch Gestalt.
Neben der vernunftgesteuerten Aufklärung und der nüchternen Klarheit des Klassizismus wuchs im späten 18. Jahrhundert die Sehnsucht nach Gefühl, Irrationalem und Phantastischem.
Die Romantik kam auf und ergriff die Kunst ebenso wie die Literatur, die Musik und die Philosophie. In Deutschland gaben Friedrich, Richter, Dahl, Carus und Runge diesem neuen Lebensgefühl in ergreifenden Bildern malerisch Gestalt.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den grossen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen uber Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eroffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgrundigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verstandlich erlautert und unterhaltsam prasentiert.
Von der Brucke bis zum Blauen Reiter spuren die Autoren dem Expressionismus in Deutschland im fruhen 20. Jahrhunderts nach. Sie prasentieren u.a. Schlusselwerke eines norddeutschen Querkopfs, eines bayerischen Tierliebhabers und eines Mannes, der sich zwar von den Expressionisten distanzierte, sich ihrem Einfluss jedoch nicht entziehen konnte.
Von der Brucke bis zum Blauen Reiter spuren die Autoren dem Expressionismus in Deutschland im fruhen 20. Jahrhunderts nach. Sie prasentieren u.a. Schlusselwerke eines norddeutschen Querkopfs, eines bayerischen Tierliebhabers und eines Mannes, der sich zwar von den Expressionisten distanzierte, sich ihrem Einfluss jedoch nicht entziehen konnte.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert. 1874 empörte eine Künstlergruppe mit dem Spottnamen Impressionisten in einer ersten Ausstellung die Pariser Öffentlichkeit. Zu revolutionär war der Geist der jungen Freilichtmaler, die den Eindruck des Augenblicks im Farbspiel des Lichts zum Inhalt ihrer Kunst erklärten. Beispielhaft stehen Cassatt, Caillebotte, Liebermann, Krøyer und Edelfelt für eine weltumspannende Revolte, die mit dem Bruch konventioneller Sehgewohnheiten die Moderne einleitete.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
Das Erblühen der Renaissancekultur in Italien stand um 1400 am Anfang eines neuen, epochalen Zeitalters. Antikenrezeption, Humanismus, große Entdeckungen und Erfindungen führten zu einem revolutionären geistigen Umschwung. Der Mensch wurde zum Maß aller Dinge und das mittelalterliche auf Gott bezogene Weltbild abgelöst. Profane Bildthemen wie das autonome Porträt gewannen an Bedeutung und der Künstler erlangte erstmals Geniestatus.
Das Erblühen der Renaissancekultur in Italien stand um 1400 am Anfang eines neuen, epochalen Zeitalters. Antikenrezeption, Humanismus, große Entdeckungen und Erfindungen führten zu einem revolutionären geistigen Umschwung. Der Mensch wurde zum Maß aller Dinge und das mittelalterliche auf Gott bezogene Weltbild abgelöst. Profane Bildthemen wie das autonome Porträt gewannen an Bedeutung und der Künstler erlangte erstmals Geniestatus.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
Kubismus und Futurismus – diese zwei Kunstströmungen revolutionierten Anfang des 20. Jahrhunderts die abendländischen Sehgewohnheiten. Skeptisch gegenüber der sichtbaren Wirklichkeit ihrer Zeit visualisierten europäische Künstler die Vielfalt ihrer Wahrnehmung und hielten die Dynamik des modernen Lebens fest. Ob sie medienwirksam provozierten oder einfach mit Farbe musizierten – diese Meisterwerke machten moderne Kunst erst möglich.
Kubismus und Futurismus – diese zwei Kunstströmungen revolutionierten Anfang des 20. Jahrhunderts die abendländischen Sehgewohnheiten. Skeptisch gegenüber der sichtbaren Wirklichkeit ihrer Zeit visualisierten europäische Künstler die Vielfalt ihrer Wahrnehmung und hielten die Dynamik des modernen Lebens fest. Ob sie medienwirksam provozierten oder einfach mit Farbe musizierten – diese Meisterwerke machten moderne Kunst erst möglich.
1,000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
Im 16. Jahrhundert erweckten religiöse wie gesellschaftliche Veränderungen den antiklassischen Geist der Manieristen. Neue Meister wie Parmigianino, Massys oder Arcimboldo losten sich von den harmoniegeprägten Renaissanceidealen. In schöpferischer Ekstase rebellierten sie mit formalen Übersteigerungen, spannungsgeladenen Kompositionen und expressiven Farben in oft erotischen, metaphysischen oder bizarren Szenen.
Im 16. Jahrhundert erweckten religiöse wie gesellschaftliche Veränderungen den antiklassischen Geist der Manieristen. Neue Meister wie Parmigianino, Massys oder Arcimboldo losten sich von den harmoniegeprägten Renaissanceidealen. In schöpferischer Ekstase rebellierten sie mit formalen Übersteigerungen, spannungsgeladenen Kompositionen und expressiven Farben in oft erotischen, metaphysischen oder bizarren Szenen.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
Der Louvre, über Jahrhunderte Sitz der großen französischen Regenten, ist heute eines der größten und meistbesuchten Museen der Welt. Die bis auf Herzog Jean Duc de Berry (1340-1415) zurückgehende Sammlung ist mit Meisterwerken von der Antike bis zur Moderne international eine der wertvollsten. Zu ihren Highlights zählen die vorgestellten Museumsstücke.
Der Louvre, über Jahrhunderte Sitz der großen französischen Regenten, ist heute eines der größten und meistbesuchten Museen der Welt. Die bis auf Herzog Jean Duc de Berry (1340-1415) zurückgehende Sammlung ist mit Meisterwerken von der Antike bis zur Moderne international eine der wertvollsten. Zu ihren Highlights zählen die vorgestellten Museumsstücke.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
Die Nationalgaleriem wurde in Berlin 1861 mit dem Nachlass des schwedischen Konsuls und Bankiers Joachim H. W. Wagener gegründet. Heute auf verschiedene Orte verteilt, zählt sie weltweit zu den renommiertesten und vielfältigsten Sammlungen der Kunst des 19., 20. und 21. Jahrhunderts. Mit Meisterwerken von Höch, Dix, Spitzweg, von Menzel und Schinkel stellt die DVD fünf der populärsten Berliner Kunstschätze vor.
Die Nationalgaleriem wurde in Berlin 1861 mit dem Nachlass des schwedischen Konsuls und Bankiers Joachim H. W. Wagener gegründet. Heute auf verschiedene Orte verteilt, zählt sie weltweit zu den renommiertesten und vielfältigsten Sammlungen der Kunst des 19., 20. und 21. Jahrhunderts. Mit Meisterwerken von Höch, Dix, Spitzweg, von Menzel und Schinkel stellt die DVD fünf der populärsten Berliner Kunstschätze vor.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
Anfang des 16. Jahrhunderts erfasste die italienische Renaissance mit ihren weltbildverändernden Neuerungen und wegweisenden Entdeckungen die Länder nördlich der Alpen. In der Auseinandersetzung mit Reformation, dem neuen, antikorientierten Formgefühl der Italiener und der heimischen Gotik prägten hier Künstler wie Dürer, Baldung Grien, Holbein d.J., Cranach d.Ä. und Bruegel d. Ä. die glanzvolle Epoche.
Anfang des 16. Jahrhunderts erfasste die italienische Renaissance mit ihren weltbildverändernden Neuerungen und wegweisenden Entdeckungen die Länder nördlich der Alpen. In der Auseinandersetzung mit Reformation, dem neuen, antikorientierten Formgefühl der Italiener und der heimischen Gotik prägten hier Künstler wie Dürer, Baldung Grien, Holbein d.J., Cranach d.Ä. und Bruegel d. Ä. die glanzvolle Epoche.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
Naturalismus, Parteitreue und Volksnähe – 40 Jahre diktierten die DDR-Obrigen begleitend von Propaganda-Parolen den Sozialistischen Realismus. Sitte, Mattheuer, Tübke, Heisig und Metzkes gehörten zu den zentralen Figuren in der Kunstszene. Sie fanden ihre individuellen, künstlerischen Positionen und vielfältige Ausdrucksmöglichkeiten im Spannungsfeld von staatsideologischer Anpassung und Auflehnung.
Naturalismus, Parteitreue und Volksnähe – 40 Jahre diktierten die DDR-Obrigen begleitend von Propaganda-Parolen den Sozialistischen Realismus. Sitte, Mattheuer, Tübke, Heisig und Metzkes gehörten zu den zentralen Figuren in der Kunstszene. Sie fanden ihre individuellen, künstlerischen Positionen und vielfältige Ausdrucksmöglichkeiten im Spannungsfeld von staatsideologischer Anpassung und Auflehnung.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
1924 publizierte der Literat André Breton das Manifest des Surrealismus . Es war die Erklärung einer Bewegung, die, gestützt auf die Psychoanalyse Sigmund Freuds, an eine höhere Wirklichkeit im Unbewussten und in der Traumwelt glaubte. Die fünf vorgestellten Künstler gaben dieser Theorie auf ihre besondere Weise Gestalt – Miró als spontane Symbol- und Farbwelt, Tanguy als‚ Seelenlandschaft' oder Dalí als dinghafte Traumwelt.
1924 publizierte der Literat André Breton das Manifest des Surrealismus . Es war die Erklärung einer Bewegung, die, gestützt auf die Psychoanalyse Sigmund Freuds, an eine höhere Wirklichkeit im Unbewussten und in der Traumwelt glaubte. Die fünf vorgestellten Künstler gaben dieser Theorie auf ihre besondere Weise Gestalt – Miró als spontane Symbol- und Farbwelt, Tanguy als‚ Seelenlandschaft' oder Dalí als dinghafte Traumwelt.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei - verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
Zunehmende Industrialisierung und Historismus riefen in der Belle Epoque verschiedene antiklassische Kunstbewegungen hervor. Die Symbolisten setzten der wirklichkeitsgetreuen Darstellung den Ausdruck von Träumen und subjektiven Seelenzuständen entgegen. Gleichzeitig lieferte der dekorative Jugendstil mit der Postulierung des Gesamtkunstwerks und seinem flächigen, linearen Formenkanon eine Stilform, die den Symbolisten entgegen kam.
Zunehmende Industrialisierung und Historismus riefen in der Belle Epoque verschiedene antiklassische Kunstbewegungen hervor. Die Symbolisten setzten der wirklichkeitsgetreuen Darstellung den Ausdruck von Träumen und subjektiven Seelenzuständen entgegen. Gleichzeitig lieferte der dekorative Jugendstil mit der Postulierung des Gesamtkunstwerks und seinem flächigen, linearen Formenkanon eine Stilform, die den Symbolisten entgegen kam.
1000 Meisterwerke aus den großen Museen der Welt ist eine der erfolgreichsten TV-Reihen über Kunst. Das Original fasziniert in neuer Bild- und Farbbrillanz mit besonderen Reisen durch die Kunstgeschichte. In jeweils fünf Kurzbetrachtungen eröffnen namhafte Autoren einen tiefgründigen Zugang zu Meisterwerken der Malerei – verständlich erläutert und unterhaltsam präsentiert.
Kunstvergnügen aus Köln quer durch die Jahrhunderte – mit Meisterwerken aus dem Wallraf-Richartz-Museum und dem Museum Ludwig gibt diese DVD einen Einblick in die Vielfalt der Kölner Kunstschätze. Aus dem ältesten Museum der Stadt wird etwa ein mittelalterliches Tafelbild vorgestellt, das als Mona Lisa der spätgotischen Malerei gilt. Das Museum Ludwig, das sich auf die Sammlung moderner und zeitgenössischer Kunst spezialisiert hat, ist u.a. mit dem Kollegenporträt eines Pop Art-Superstars vertreten.
Kunstvergnügen aus Köln quer durch die Jahrhunderte – mit Meisterwerken aus dem Wallraf-Richartz-Museum und dem Museum Ludwig gibt diese DVD einen Einblick in die Vielfalt der Kölner Kunstschätze. Aus dem ältesten Museum der Stadt wird etwa ein mittelalterliches Tafelbild vorgestellt, das als Mona Lisa der spätgotischen Malerei gilt. Das Museum Ludwig, das sich auf die Sammlung moderner und zeitgenössischer Kunst spezialisiert hat, ist u.a. mit dem Kollegenporträt eines Pop Art-Superstars vertreten.
For the American dancer and choreographer Alvin Ailey (1931–1989) dance is an international art which discloses itself to all people because it doesn't require any spoken language. Everywhere that the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre appeared, the audiences greeted the harmonic beauty, the dynamic movements and the dance-like expression of the soloists with great enthusiasm.
Ailey choreographed 79 ballets and developed his own style using modern dance, jazz and classical ballet. His pieces relate amusing and earnest stories of the black inhabitants of North America. His choreographs are an expression of their deep faith as well as their grace, their sorrow and their joy of living. And of course they have a special energy and sensuality because Ailey mainly choreographed his pieces to "black" music by using elements of blues, spirituals, jazz and soul.
Ailey choreographed 79 ballets and developed his own style using modern dance, jazz and classical ballet. His pieces relate amusing and earnest stories of the black inhabitants of North America. His choreographs are an expression of their deep faith as well as their grace, their sorrow and their joy of living. And of course they have a special energy and sensuality because Ailey mainly choreographed his pieces to "black" music by using elements of blues, spirituals, jazz and soul.
"Those in search of a thoroughly teutonic Fidelio should speed to Covent Garden. The new production, comes via the Theatre de la Monnaie in Brussels. It moves swiftly and surely, is powerfully cast and is conducted with fine muscular authority by Christoph von Dohnányi"
- The Times
- The Times
The libretto, by Henri Meilac and Ludovic Halévy, is based on a novella by Prosper Mérimée. The first performance of Carmen on 3 March 1875, produced such a hostile reaction that Bizet left Paris physically and psychologically ill, and died only three months later on 3 June 1875, following two serious heart attacks. The massive scandal of the premiere may have been partially the result of Bizet's attempt to reform the Opéra Comique genre, yet it must still be said that Carmen is operatic history's most famous example of a failure being corrected by the passage of time: Carmen is now one of the most frequently performed operas in the world.
The major Spanish actress and producer Nuria Espert was brought in for the production at London's Royal Opera House, Covent Garden in 1991, while the authentic Flamenco choreography comes from Cristina Hoyos and is danced by, among others, Juan Ortego. For the musical side of this successful production Zubin Mehta had top vocalists at his disposal to perform the roles of Carmen, Don José and Escamillo.
The major Spanish actress and producer Nuria Espert was brought in for the production at London's Royal Opera House, Covent Garden in 1991, while the authentic Flamenco choreography comes from Cristina Hoyos and is danced by, among others, Juan Ortego. For the musical side of this successful production Zubin Mehta had top vocalists at his disposal to perform the roles of Carmen, Don José and Escamillo.
Arrigo Boito's treatment of the Faust legend is imaginative yet also faithful to Goethe's original conception, and the score is memorable for its rich orchestral sounds, beautifully punctuated with lyrical passages and choral interludes.
Robert Carsen's sumptuous, post-modern production of Mefistofele is a gloriously decadent and theatrically stunning realisation, and the San Francisco Opera's performance has been unanimously acclaimed in both Paris and San Francisco.
Samuel Ramey, in the title role, has won both critical and overwhelming popular approval.
Robert Carsen's sumptuous, post-modern production of Mefistofele is a gloriously decadent and theatrically stunning realisation, and the San Francisco Opera's performance has been unanimously acclaimed in both Paris and San Francisco.
Samuel Ramey, in the title role, has won both critical and overwhelming popular approval.
The Dance Theatre of Harlem's birthplace was in a disused garage in Harlem, a black district of New York. Arthur Mitchell, the founder who still acts as its artistic director, set up the ballet school with the aim of giving black dancers the opportunity of sound training, as their skin color meant that they often encountered difficulties finding employment with existing companies which consisted mainly of white dancers. Since its humble beginnings in 1969 – it was founded shortly after the murder of Martin Luther King – the Dance Theatre of Harlem has attained worldwide status. Today, its repertoire is a representative cross section from the history of artistic dancing. Alongside classics of the Russian school such as Swan Lake and Sheherazade , successful neoclassical ballets from the years following the First World War as well as works by contemporary choreographers are shown.
Léo Delibes was 30 years old when he achieved his critical breakthrough in France's musical metropolis. Having made his debut with the music for the ballet La Source (The Source), he was immediately entrusted with the commission of writing a ballet that would fill an entire evening performance; the result was Coppélia . The scenery for this fairy-tale piece was designed by Charles Nuitter, and the story was taken from E.T.A. Hoffmann's Der Sandmann (The Sandman).
In 1994 the Opéra National de Lyon performed Coppélia under the choreography of Maguy Martin. The set was designed by Renaud Gaulot, costumes by Montserrat Casanova, with lighting by Jørgen S. Johannessen. Kent Nagano conducted the orchestra of the Opéra National.
In 1994 the Opéra National de Lyon performed Coppélia under the choreography of Maguy Martin. The set was designed by Renaud Gaulot, costumes by Montserrat Casanova, with lighting by Jørgen S. Johannessen. Kent Nagano conducted the orchestra of the Opéra National.
During the 1920s Vladimir Deshevov (1889 – 1955) was regarded as one of the most promising younger Soviet composers. Darius Milhaud, who made his acquaintance in 1926 during a visit to Leningrad, praised him in the French press as a "genius" and "extremely original". However, subsequent attempts to make his compositions better known abroad were unsuccessful. In 1929 followed Dechevov's best-known composition: Ice and Steel . But such were the ideological tensions of this period that this avant-garde work soon disappeared from the public stage. Although Dechevov was one of the chief proponents of the left wing musical avant-garde in the 1920s and explicitly came out in favour of critical appropriation of elements from Western modernism, he was not subjected to direct ideological attacks during the Stalinist era. Neither, however, despite clearly moderating his compositional style, did he succeed in obtaining a prominent position in the conformist musical culture of socialist realism that held sway after 1932. It was only after the outbreak of the Second World War that he started once again to produce major works of his own: ballet music based on classical materials and patriotic tone poems. However, these did not prevent his name from increasingly being forgotten.
The 7th Symphony by Beethoven is often referred to as a 'dance symphony' and was described by Wagner as a 'grand apotheosis of the dance', but van Schayk hears in the music the voice of an almost obsessive idealism. Beethoven wrote his Symphony No. 7 between 1812 and 1813, the last years of the Napoleonic Wars, and the choreographer feels that it expresses the composer's ecstatic longing to reach the sublime future he was convinced lay ahead at the end of the dark period of the war.
A great admirer of George Balanchine, Hans van Manen was once told that Beethoven was one of the few composers whose work was impossible to choreograph. Van Manen rose to the challenge, creating Grosse Fuge to Beethoven's String Quartet in B flat major, Op. 133 (Grosse Fuge) and the Cavatina from String Quartet in B flat major, Op. 130. The resulting work is an abstract ballet on van Manen's favourite theme - the tension and relationships between human beings. He once said, "As soon as I place two people in an empty room I express a mood or a relationship."
With a good deal of ironic and sometimes sarcastic humour, eroticism and aggression between man and women are expressed in the Piano Variations choreographed on Prokofiev's Sarcasms Op. 17, to Satie's Gnossiennes Nos. 1, 2...
A great admirer of George Balanchine, Hans van Manen was once told that Beethoven was one of the few composers whose work was impossible to choreograph. Van Manen rose to the challenge, creating Grosse Fuge to Beethoven's String Quartet in B flat major, Op. 133 (Grosse Fuge) and the Cavatina from String Quartet in B flat major, Op. 130. The resulting work is an abstract ballet on van Manen's favourite theme - the tension and relationships between human beings. He once said, "As soon as I place two people in an empty room I express a mood or a relationship."
With a good deal of ironic and sometimes sarcastic humour, eroticism and aggression between man and women are expressed in the Piano Variations choreographed on Prokofiev's Sarcasms Op. 17, to Satie's Gnossiennes Nos. 1, 2...
The preocupation of the composer of "minimal music", Philip Glass, with Indian music and his interest in Gandhi began in 1966 during his first visit to India where he met Ravi Shankar. Since then, the rhythmic figures of Indian music have exercised a significant influence on his music which has a strong meditative and almost hypnotic effect through the repetitive sequences of tones with minimal changes. Glass's work needs time to unfold its hypnotic effect and fascination. With his second opera Glass didn't want to draw a historic portrait of Mahatma Gandhi. Instead he used the example of Gandhi's work during the last years between 1893 and 1914 in South Africa to draw an outline of the current worldwide political and religious problems. In South Africa Gandhi formulated his theory of passive resistance and civil disobedience known as Satyagraha as a reaction to the government's discrimination against the Indian population evidenced by its denial of basic rights such as the right to vote.
Dame Janet Baker, in one of her greatest roles, leads a cast of some of Britain's finest interpreters of Baroque opera, and their performance under the baton of Sir Charles Mackerras is one of the highest musical excellence. This video is a studio recording of John Copley's acclaimed English National Opera production.
The opera was first performed in 1724 at the Haymarket Theatre in London using castrati singers in the heroes' roles. This production follows modern practice in using women in these parts. Dame Janet's virtuoso role as Julius Caesar has been heralded as a masterful recreation of the music which Handel wrote for the finest singers of his time.
The opera was first performed in 1724 at the Haymarket Theatre in London using castrati singers in the heroes' roles. This production follows modern practice in using women in these parts. Dame Janet's virtuoso role as Julius Caesar has been heralded as a masterful recreation of the music which Handel wrote for the finest singers of his time.
Hansel und Gretel is a fairy-tale opera (Marchenspiel) by Engelbert Humperdinck to a libretto by his sister Adelheid Wette. The idea for the opera was proposed to Humperdinck by his sister, who approached him about writing music for songs that she had written for her children for Christmas based on Hansel and Gretel . After several revisions, the musical sketches and the songs were turned into a full-scale opera.
Hansel und Gretel has been associated with Christmas since its earliest performances, and it is often performed at Christmas time. It is much admired for its folk music-inspired themes, one of the most famous being the prayer from act II.
A family classic, it grew out of a set of incidental music and, written between 1890 and 1893, it was first performed on 23 December 1893 under Richard Strauss in Weimar. The form in which the story is used in the opera derives from the collection of Ludwig Bechstein. Gertrud, the desperate mother, sends her hungry children into the wood to pick strawberries, unaware of the danger to which she exposes them until Peter, the broombinder, returns and is shocked at what she has done; both anxious parents immediately set out to find them. The thoroughly happy ending introduces another significant variation to the familiar version...
Hansel und Gretel has been associated with Christmas since its earliest performances, and it is often performed at Christmas time. It is much admired for its folk music-inspired themes, one of the most famous being the prayer from act II.
A family classic, it grew out of a set of incidental music and, written between 1890 and 1893, it was first performed on 23 December 1893 under Richard Strauss in Weimar. The form in which the story is used in the opera derives from the collection of Ludwig Bechstein. Gertrud, the desperate mother, sends her hungry children into the wood to pick strawberries, unaware of the danger to which she exposes them until Peter, the broombinder, returns and is shocked at what she has done; both anxious parents immediately set out to find them. The thoroughly happy ending introduces another significant variation to the familiar version...
Besides being one of the most important Czech composers, Leoš Janáček is also among the most individual opera composers of the twentieth century, without whom one could hardly imagine the development of contemporary music. His nine stage works in particular have carried his homeland's life and customs, and also folk melodies and musical language, out into the world.
Leoš Janáček wrote the libretto for the Cunning Little Vixen himself, based on Rudolf Tešnohlidek's story of the same name, Příhody lišky Bystroušky (literally: 'The adventures of the vixen Bystrushka'). The first performance on 6 November 1924 at the Brno National Theatre was a great artistic success, and international acclaim followed with its legendary staging in 1956, at the Comic Opera in Berlin.
Leoš Janáček wrote the libretto for the Cunning Little Vixen himself, based on Rudolf Tešnohlidek's story of the same name, Příhody lišky Bystroušky (literally: 'The adventures of the vixen Bystrushka'). The first performance on 6 November 1924 at the Brno National Theatre was a great artistic success, and international acclaim followed with its legendary staging in 1956, at the Comic Opera in Berlin.
Not just in insider circles, the Russian Kirov Ballet of St. Petersburg is considered one of the world's leading ballet ensembles. On this DVD video the troupe finally presents a representative sampling of their extensive repertoire. Like a string of pearls, one highlight follows another. The music ranges from Frederic Chopin and Igor Stravinsky's "Petruschka" to Samuel Barber's "Adagio for Strings," famous for its part in the foreboding film "Platoon." For an excellent overview of the work of the famous Kirov Ballet and ballet itself, this DVD is a must-have.
Exactly 20 years separate Jiri Kylian's solo Silent Cries and his black-and-white film Car Men, made in 2006 in collaboration with the Dutch filmmaker Boris Paval Cone. What unites the two works is the sheer expressiveness of the dance on the one hand and the distinctive facial gestures and body language of the dancer Sabine Kupferberg on the other. Kupferberg is the one who pulls the strings in Car Men, victim and plotter in equal measure, prepared at all times to stand up to life's problems – as well as to her three co-actors Escamillo, Don Jose and Micaela – with humour and enigmatic wit. And so at the end of Kylian's unusual, slapstick-like tragicomedy, she simply abandons her three colleagues, self-assured and incorrigible – just like her role model Carmen.
Jules Massenet's opera Werther belongs to the most favourite works of French repertoire. It is in the first wave of German Romantic literature that Massenet found the source for his doubtless most powerful work – and certainly his most popular! Might the French musician have detected in his own life the inspiration for these pages about the tormented fate of Werther and Charlotte, of their impossible love, their sighs, their unhappiness? Rarely has the author of Manon found a more poignant or fitting touch, leading the listener right inside the tempestuous soul of his characters.
It was first performed in 1892 in Vienna, and based on a famous novel by J.W.Goethe The Sorrows of Young Werther . The story of the main character Werther takes place around 1772 in Wetzlar near Frankfurt, and unveils a touching drama of two young hearts who were not allowed to find happiness, because of the conventions of the period and family conditions. When Werther meets Charlotte, he falls in love with her at first sight but is desolated after finding out she is about to marry someone else. Charlotte's jolly and optimistic sister Sophie hides her feelings she secretly cherishes towards Werther who is hopelessly infatuated with Charlotte and has numerous times, to no avail, attempted to...
It was first performed in 1892 in Vienna, and based on a famous novel by J.W.Goethe The Sorrows of Young Werther . The story of the main character Werther takes place around 1772 in Wetzlar near Frankfurt, and unveils a touching drama of two young hearts who were not allowed to find happiness, because of the conventions of the period and family conditions. When Werther meets Charlotte, he falls in love with her at first sight but is desolated after finding out she is about to marry someone else. Charlotte's jolly and optimistic sister Sophie hides her feelings she secretly cherishes towards Werther who is hopelessly infatuated with Charlotte and has numerous times, to no avail, attempted to...
Eugene Scribe had presented the composer with the drama L'Africaine together with a libretto for Le Prophete as early as 1838. The world premier on 28 April 1865 was one of the outstanding social events of the Second Empire. L'Africaine was first performed at San Francisco Opera on 3 November 1972. The current performance, in the original French version, is a revival of the new production of the grande opera created by the opera house for its programme in September 1988.
Caravaggio, born Michelangelo Merisi, has entered history due to his paintings of dramatic intensity. Caravaggio used to venture the threshold beyond the pale throughout his life. He was seen for admiration of his work and harsh opposition towards his extraordinary realism in painting human beings. Due to his passionate personality, he encountered more than several conflicts with people around him, sponsors, and the law. One of his foremost artistic twists was the extreme contrast between brightness and darkness, light and shadow.
Mauro Bigonzetti is one of the leading choreographers of the Italian ballet who freed himself from the predominance of mainly classical opera companies in the 80's. He created his choreographies mainly for the Aterballetto in Reggio Emilia that helped him to fame and worldwide attention. "When I think of Caravaggio, I think of the artist and the human being at the same time. These are the two sides of the human existence that interest me in particular. The relations of these two worlds are the inspiration for this work: the inner world on the one hand – and how it evolves artistically on the other."
Mauro Bigonzetti has developed the piece Caravaggio in collaboration with the Staatsballett Berlin.
Mauro Bigonzetti is one of the leading choreographers of the Italian ballet who freed himself from the predominance of mainly classical opera companies in the 80's. He created his choreographies mainly for the Aterballetto in Reggio Emilia that helped him to fame and worldwide attention. "When I think of Caravaggio, I think of the artist and the human being at the same time. These are the two sides of the human existence that interest me in particular. The relations of these two worlds are the inspiration for this work: the inner world on the one hand – and how it evolves artistically on the other."
Mauro Bigonzetti has developed the piece Caravaggio in collaboration with the Staatsballett Berlin.
Sinfonietta
Czech-born Kylián was inspired by the beautiful music of his compatriot Janáček to create this fluid, spacious, romantic ballet which has become a milestone in contemporary choreography. The forceful fanfares of Janáček's music are matched by a ceaselessly energetic and exuberant display of movement, creating an image which carries through the composer's intention of evoking the spirit of the "modern, free Czech."
Symphony in D
In Symphony in D Kylián demonstrates his remarkable ability to create a highly inventive and graceful ballet which is, at the same time, extremely funny. Set to Haydn's Symphony No.101, "The Clock" and Symphony No. 73, "The Chase," it is an affectionate send-up of classical ballet poses and is performed with great wit and style by the Nederlands Dans Theater.
Stamping Ground
Stamping Ground is a unique and original ballet inspired by Kylián's experience of Aboriginal culture and dance, which led him to seek out the universal qualities that underlie both modern ballet and a style of dancing that has survived in Australia for over 40,000 years. Stamping is the most important element in Aboriginal dance. Each tribe has its own way of dancing and its own stamping ground. In his ballet, Kylián allows the dancers...
Czech-born Kylián was inspired by the beautiful music of his compatriot Janáček to create this fluid, spacious, romantic ballet which has become a milestone in contemporary choreography. The forceful fanfares of Janáček's music are matched by a ceaselessly energetic and exuberant display of movement, creating an image which carries through the composer's intention of evoking the spirit of the "modern, free Czech."
Symphony in D
In Symphony in D Kylián demonstrates his remarkable ability to create a highly inventive and graceful ballet which is, at the same time, extremely funny. Set to Haydn's Symphony No.101, "The Clock" and Symphony No. 73, "The Chase," it is an affectionate send-up of classical ballet poses and is performed with great wit and style by the Nederlands Dans Theater.
Stamping Ground
Stamping Ground is a unique and original ballet inspired by Kylián's experience of Aboriginal culture and dance, which led him to seek out the universal qualities that underlie both modern ballet and a style of dancing that has survived in Australia for over 40,000 years. Stamping is the most important element in Aboriginal dance. Each tribe has its own way of dancing and its own stamping ground. In his ballet, Kylián allows the dancers...
These two ballet recordings, based on the music of the French composer Maurice Ravel and the Russian composer Sergei Prokofiev, are recommended to every child, youth and adult whose heart and mind are open for a musical and dancing encounter with the world of fairy tales. Both of them are about a small boy and his dealings with nature. Despite their similarities, the two works are fundamentally different. It is the difference between the two which makes this combination so appealing. Not only do they differ in content, the structure of the plot, the type of composition and the treatment of orchestral instruments, the means used by the Nederlands Dans Theater and the Royal Ballet School to realize the material make L'enfant et les sortilèges and Peter and the Wolf two entirely unique works.
L'enfant et les sortilèges presents a fantastic ballet fairy tale rich in witty inspirations in dance, costume and stage design with the choreography and staging of Jiří Kylián and the pioneering Parisian opera allusion under Lorin Maazel. This production was awarded several prizes. And rightly so, for nary any other ballet has ever been met with such enthusiasm and amusement while deeply touching its audiences.
L'enfant et les sortilèges presents a fantastic ballet fairy tale rich in witty inspirations in dance, costume and stage design with the choreography and staging of Jiří Kylián and the pioneering Parisian opera allusion under Lorin Maazel. This production was awarded several prizes. And rightly so, for nary any other ballet has ever been met with such enthusiasm and amusement while deeply touching its audiences.
" La Boheme , which opened at the San Francisco Opera House Wednesday night [Nov 19, 1988], starred international recording star Luciano Pavarotti as Rodolfo and Mirella Freni as Mimi, who both had their debut with the company 21 years ago in the same roles."
- Opera review, November 1988
- Opera review, November 1988
Manon Lescaut , Puccini's first major success, is a work of impassioned emotions based on the 18th-century novel by Abbe Prevost, depicting the doomed infatuation of Chevalier des Grieux for beautiful, fun-loving Manon. Puccini clothes the story in warmly passionate music that makes a direct appeal to the listener's emotions. "Manon", wrote Puccini to his publisher Giulio Ricordi in 1889, "is a heroine I believe in and therefore she cannot fail to win the heart of the public." This turned out to be a truly prophetic statement since none of Puccini's other world successes were received on their first nights as rapturously as Manon Lescaut . The popularity of Puccini's great masterpiece has never waned and the production at the Chemnitz Opera House was hailed as "a magnificent event" and "moments we go to the opera for."
Bonus features:
- Interviews with Bernhard Helmich, Ansgar Weigner, Frank Beermann, Astrid Weber
Bonus features:
- Interviews with Bernhard Helmich, Ansgar Weigner, Frank Beermann, Astrid Weber
The star-studded vocal ensemble, under the direction of internationally renowned director David Runnicles, guarantees a satisfactory interpretation of Puccini's majestic opera. The aria "Nessun dorma," which has now become a global hit, is sung by the young Indiana-born tenor Michael Sylvester as Calaf. At the vanguard of the contemporary art genre, David Hockney has been hired as both director and designer to contribute his experience to this well-staged opera project.
For his first opera production, Dario Fo, the theatre director known for his brilliant wit, chose to stage Rossini's Il barbiere di Siviglia for the Netherlands Opera. First mounted in 1987, it was a huge success and a live recording of its revival in May 1992, the 200th anniversary of Rossini's birth, has been made.
Fo has said that 'Rossini is the musician of eating and love. He composes music rich in herbs and aromas, in which you find olives, tomatoes, fish, grapes, roses and rosemary, sheets and tablecloths, dry wine and the laughter of girls.' His Barbiere is a joyful carnival. During the overture he fills the stage with carnival revellers and immediately the commedia dell'arte origins of opera buffa are restored. Visual theatrics abound, never at the expense of the music, but highlighting it, engaging the eye as well as the ear. Fo addresses the heart more than the intellect and Rossini's comedy comes up dazzling and vital.
Fo has said that 'Rossini is the musician of eating and love. He composes music rich in herbs and aromas, in which you find olives, tomatoes, fish, grapes, roses and rosemary, sheets and tablecloths, dry wine and the laughter of girls.' His Barbiere is a joyful carnival. During the overture he fills the stage with carnival revellers and immediately the commedia dell'arte origins of opera buffa are restored. Visual theatrics abound, never at the expense of the music, but highlighting it, engaging the eye as well as the ear. Fo addresses the heart more than the intellect and Rossini's comedy comes up dazzling and vital.
La Cenerentola is one of those Rossini operas that cannot be forced into a stylistic straightjacket. An opera buffa with tragic overtones, a comedy with magical nuances, a parable in which one character – Alidoro – pulls all the strings. The fairy tale transcends character comedy to become a baroque allegory whose finale is a vindication of Ferretti's subtitle La bontà in trionfo : "the triumph of good". For the 1988 Salzburg festival, Michael Hampe staged La Cenerentola with the assistance of stage and costume designer Mauro Pagano and lighting designer Hans Toelstede. His approach highlights not so much the fairy tale as Rossini's underlying satirical commentary on the society of his times and human relationships. A star cast including Ann Murray as Angelina and Francisco Araiza as Don Ramiro ensure musical quality, as does Rossini expert Riccardo Chailly's conducting of the Vienna State Choir and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
Tchaikovsky is regarded as Russia's great symphonist. In his music he succeeded in creating a synthesis between the national musical language of Russia and the compositional forms and techniques of western European romanticism. His works are distinguished by rich melodic passages - parts of which are full of the deepest melancholy - interspersed with cheerful, dance-like sections drawn from Russian folk music. His great operas Eugene Onegin and Pique Dame reveal a fascinating artistry that uses expressive, highly dramatic characters and scenes. Pique Dame was written quickly in the spring of 1890 in Florence, and its first performance took place the same year at the Marinsky theatre in St. Petersburg. The production recorded here received the highest acclaim for its outstanding interpretation at the 1992 Glyndebourne Festival. The London Philharmonic under Andrew Davis accompanied a cast which included Sergei Leiferkus (Count Tomsky) and Dimitri Kharitonov (Prince Jeletzky).
With its perfect fusion of music and choreographic ideas, The Sleeping Beauty is the quintessential romantic ballet, and it finds its spiritual home preserved in the outstandic classic traditions of the Kirov Ballet.
The stylish grandeur of choreographer and artistic director Oleg Vinogradov's production shows the entire company as its best. The higher traditon in dance continues with Larissa Lezhnina, one of Kirov's brightest new talents, brilliant as Princess Aurora, and Farukh Ruzimatov's performance in the role of Prince Desire demonstrates both power and grace.
It may be a truism to say Russians interpret Russian music best, but based on this stunning Kirov Ballet performance it's excitingly and exhilaratingly accurate. From the principal dancers to the last member of the ensemble, the grace and mastery of this world-class company is clearly in evidence.
The stylish grandeur of choreographer and artistic director Oleg Vinogradov's production shows the entire company as its best. The higher traditon in dance continues with Larissa Lezhnina, one of Kirov's brightest new talents, brilliant as Princess Aurora, and Farukh Ruzimatov's performance in the role of Prince Desire demonstrates both power and grace.
It may be a truism to say Russians interpret Russian music best, but based on this stunning Kirov Ballet performance it's excitingly and exhilaratingly accurate. From the principal dancers to the last member of the ensemble, the grace and mastery of this world-class company is clearly in evidence.
Natalia Makarova, one of the most important interpreters of the classical ballet repertoire in the twentieth century, has also had great success as a producer. Her staging of Swan Lake is based on the original choreography by Petipa and Ivanov, with additional choreography by the late Sir Frederick Ashton. Evelyn Hart and Peter Schaufuss dance the main roles in this studio recording. Makarova's innovative interpretation presents the work as a story of perfect and eternal love. The main focus is on Siegfried's love for Odette, her love for him, his unfaithfulness, for which she ultimately forgives him, and her self-sacrifice in going to her death with him in order to break the power of an evil curse. The production is succinct and well paced. The stage design by Günther Schneider-Siemssen does not use scenery to communicate changes of place and mood but back projections, which are extremely effective for creating a mysterious, magical atmosphere.
Macbeth signifies the beginning of Verdi's life-long preoccupation with William Shakespeare where he came close to emulating the master with his congenial composition of Othello and whom he even surpassed with Falstaff . Aware of the great musical as well as literary challenge, Verdi wrote the scenario himself and essentially concentrated the piece on three main protagonists: Macbeth, Lady Macbeth and the prophecy of the witches… During the first performance on 14 March 1847 in Florence the audience reacted with great displeasure. The piece only gradually established itself in the world of opera. Luca Ronconi's new production of Verdi's early masterpiece which was first performed in June 1987 at the Deutsche Oper in Berlin was received in Germany and around the world with great praise.
A bleak wind chord of E flat minor opens Richard Wagner's Götterdämmerung . It establishes the dominant atmosphere of the piece from its first bar: twilight, a deceptive half-light, prevails. Shadowy figures stumble towards the abyss. The last evening of the Ring is one of plotting and betrayal, of ominous oaths, a chilling lust for power, abuse and humiliation – and, also, of a superbly staged apocalypse, when the beings and things destined for destruction shine brightly for one last time. The leitmotivs and thematic ideas from throughout the whole tetralogy recur in Götterdämmerung , intensified and woven into a musical web from which there can be no escape. Everything appears to fit together fatally with everything else. There is nothing more to be done. The net of catastrophe is knotted too fatefully for that, both musically and dramatically. When Wagner sat down to write a prose outline of what turned out as the last part of the Ring , he called it Siegfried's Death . That was in the year of revolutions, 1848. The new title, usually translated as Twilight of the Gods , came later (Bernard Shaw called it Night Falls on the Gods but that never caught on). All the threads of the drama run now towards the hero's fall. The death of Siegfried precipitates the...
Outside Germany, the name Weimar tends to evoke mixed feelings and pictures of German history of the last hundred years. Within Germany, Weimar means a town in the state of Thuringia arguably saturated with the "Deutsche Kultur" of the "Weimarer Klassik", the legendary Bauhaus, and finally the life and work of Franz Liszt and his son in law Richard Wagner. In Weimar Richard Wagner began composing the first part of his Ring Cycle, Das Rheingold. In 2008 the Nationaltheater Weimar started a new production of this unique tetralogy. The conductor is Carl St. Clair, a former student of Leonard Bernstein. With Michael Schulz' fine and highly intelligent staging this new Ring production becomes an outstanding document of contemporary opera theatre.
Richard Wagner's Ring of the Nibelung reflects the composer's autobiography as much as the political turmoil of his times. As work progressed, another figure grew to be as important as the hero Siegfried, the god Wotan, the mouthpiece for Wagner's ideas. "He's exactly like us: he is the sum of today's intellectual consciousness, whereas Siegfried is what we hope the human being of the future will be, but who cannot be fashioned by us, and who must make himself by means of our destruction!" Our own doom as the basis of a happier future?
Siegfried is the second 'day' – and third part – of Richard Wagner's Ring, the musical saga that its author spent more than a quarter of a century composing. It follows the rise of a young hero, Siegfried, the illegitimate son of the twins whose story we were told in Die Walküre. On the one hand, there is learning about life, glorying in nature and in the emotions, as opposed to those of calculation and greed on the other. This episode shows how Wagner was intent on changing society, on showing that a different kind of man can exist, that the mercenary petit bourgeois world can be replaced by greater humanity and freedom.
Siegfried is the second 'day' – and third part – of Richard Wagner's Ring, the musical saga that its author spent more than a quarter of a century composing. It follows the rise of a young hero, Siegfried, the illegitimate son of the twins whose story we were told in Die Walküre. On the one hand, there is learning about life, glorying in nature and in the emotions, as opposed to those of calculation and greed on the other. This episode shows how Wagner was intent on changing society, on showing that a different kind of man can exist, that the mercenary petit bourgeois world can be replaced by greater humanity and freedom.
The double title of the opera Tannhäuser oder der Sängerkrieg auf der Wartburg , which had its grand premiere on 19 October 1845 under Wagner's direction in the Hoftheater in Dresden, is already an indication of how Wagner's work unites two circles of material whose tradition stems from separate sources. The figure of the minnesinger is an historical fact and his episodes are documented with the Tannhäuserlied as far back as 1520. In a musical sense, the contrast between diatonicism and chromaticism is symbolic of two different worlds. Wagner revised the original work in 1847 by changing the finale, among other things, and then adapted the opera once again for a Paris production in 1861 (this is the "Parisian version" with additions).
David Alden's new production by the Bavarian State Opera at the National Theater in Munich, which premiered at the opera festival on 6 July 1994, was celebrated by audiences and music journals alike as a milestone of contemporary Wagner adoptions. Zubin Mehta conducted this focused yet enchanting musical interpretation.
David Alden's new production by the Bavarian State Opera at the National Theater in Munich, which premiered at the opera festival on 6 July 1994, was celebrated by audiences and music journals alike as a milestone of contemporary Wagner adoptions. Zubin Mehta conducted this focused yet enchanting musical interpretation.
"There are no bounds to the longing, the desire, the bliss, and the anguish of love. The world, power, fame, glory, honor, chivalry, loyalty, friendship… all are swept away. Only one thing is left alive… yearning, yearning, insatiable desire…" Richard Wagner
Of all operas, perhaps the one that least needs ingenious extramusical assistance is ‚ Tristan und Isolde, an aurally erotic work that speaks so vividly to the listener's inner eye. Wagner's score is simply more illustrative and sensuously pictorial than any series of stage pictures could be. Golo Berg’s passionate conducting of the Dessau Philharmonic continually presses that truth home. He leads the orchestra in a lithe and propulsive performance that shows unusual consideration for the wonderful voices of the singers. A sensational opera night at a small German opera company.
Of all operas, perhaps the one that least needs ingenious extramusical assistance is ‚ Tristan und Isolde, an aurally erotic work that speaks so vividly to the listener's inner eye. Wagner's score is simply more illustrative and sensuously pictorial than any series of stage pictures could be. Golo Berg’s passionate conducting of the Dessau Philharmonic continually presses that truth home. He leads the orchestra in a lithe and propulsive performance that shows unusual consideration for the wonderful voices of the singers. A sensational opera night at a small German opera company.
"The free man must be his own maker"
Richard Wagner's Ring of the Nibelung reflects the composer's autobiography as much as the political turmoil of his times. As work progressed, another figure grew to be as important as the hero Siegfried, the god Wotan, the mouthpiece for Wagner's ideas. "He's exactly like us: he is the sum of today's intellectual consciousness, whereas Siegfried is what we hope the human being of the future will be, but who cannot be fashioned by us, and who must make himself by means of our destruction!" Our own doom as the basis of a happier future?
Wagner dressed this Herculean task musically in the spreading, shimmering web of his leitmotivic working (there are approximately 20 distinct motives in Die Walküre). Dramaturgically, the conversational style of Das Rheingold gives way to the tone of bourgeois tragedy: incestuous passion, more than one form of deep-seated marital antagonism, and a lot of talk, a lot of self-justification in the form of recapitulation. This, the First Day of the tetralogy (Das Rheingold being a "preliminary evening"), was without doubt the "most moving, the most tragic" of all Wagner's works in the view of his wife Cosima, expressed in her diary on 31 August 1873. The text of Die Walküre was finished on 1 July...
Richard Wagner's Ring of the Nibelung reflects the composer's autobiography as much as the political turmoil of his times. As work progressed, another figure grew to be as important as the hero Siegfried, the god Wotan, the mouthpiece for Wagner's ideas. "He's exactly like us: he is the sum of today's intellectual consciousness, whereas Siegfried is what we hope the human being of the future will be, but who cannot be fashioned by us, and who must make himself by means of our destruction!" Our own doom as the basis of a happier future?
Wagner dressed this Herculean task musically in the spreading, shimmering web of his leitmotivic working (there are approximately 20 distinct motives in Die Walküre). Dramaturgically, the conversational style of Das Rheingold gives way to the tone of bourgeois tragedy: incestuous passion, more than one form of deep-seated marital antagonism, and a lot of talk, a lot of self-justification in the form of recapitulation. This, the First Day of the tetralogy (Das Rheingold being a "preliminary evening"), was without doubt the "most moving, the most tragic" of all Wagner's works in the view of his wife Cosima, expressed in her diary on 31 August 1873. The text of Die Walküre was finished on 1 July...