Richard Wagner

Biography

Richard Wagner (1813 - 1883) was a German composer, theater director and conductor predominantly known for his operas (or "musical dramas" as they were later known as). Applying the concept of the Gesamtkunstwerk ("total work of art") to opera, he aimed to unify all works of art via the theater. He presented his revolutionary ideas in a series of essays. His major works include 'The Flying Dutchman' (1843), 'Parsifal' (1882) and more.