The word ‘genius’ is used far too liberally, but there are few cases, such as that of William Shakespeare, where it is hard to argue. Richard Wagner is another of such — a man who took the art form of opera to a whole new level. As his patron King Ludwig II of Bavaria noted, the 19th century was fortunate to have hosted him. Wagner’s genius needs no explanation from me, but what I can do is to assist the process of sharing insights and musical experiences with students and staff at Oxford’s Universities, or those who, like myself, just happen to live in the area.
Note that the University itself no longer has an active Wagner society, and having failed to get critical mass in meetings I tried to organise early in 2015, it has been a low priority for me since. However I do not want to give up quite yet.
If I organize something, I will post details here, along with events organised by others in the area that might be of interest. If you want to be on my e-mailing list then contact me at c6goakley9@virgin4medi7a.com (NB: delete all the numbers).
| Date/time | Venue | Event |
|---|---|---|
| 16 May 2024 7:30pm | Sheldonian Theatre, Oxford |
Performance of Siegfried Idyll by the Oxford Philharmonic. The program also includes Mozart Horn Concerto No. 3 in Eb Major, KV 447 and Schubert Symphony No. 5 in Eb Major. D. 485 |
| 26 May 2024 7:30pm | Sheldonian Theatre, Oxford |
Performance of the Prelude and Liebestod from Tristan und Isolde by Anne-Sophie Mutter and the Oxford Philharmonic. The program also includes Brahms Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 77 and Strauss Don Juan, Op. 20 |
Chris Oakley, 6 March 2024