The Wagner Problem: Performance and Programming in the 21st Century

The Wagner Problem: Performance and Programming in the 21st Century

Author: Seattle Opera November 9, 2022 Duration: 1:17:35

Richard Wagner is once again making an appearance on the Seattle Opera stage, renewing questions about the controversial composer's compatibility with contemporary social values. Wagner's objectionable views and dominant position in the opera canon have long vexed opera lovers, prompting some to wonder what role Wagner should play for modern opera companies. 

Join esteemed musicologists and music critics from around the globe as they reflect on the ethics of performing Wagner in the 21st century and envision a more equitable model for classical music. The conversation will address how opera companies might present works by problematic artists, as well as what they can do more broadly to diversify programming. What gets the privilege of being called classical music, and what gets left out of that definition? What role should opera companies play in the cultivation of new music? And how can we find a balance between traditional works and overlooked voices?


Ever wondered how a grand opera production comes together, or what it feels like to stand in the wings just before the curtain rises? The Seattle Opera Podcast pulls back the velvet curtain on this intricate world. From the company that has been a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest arts scene since 1963, this series offers a genuine backstage pass. You’ll hear directly from the singers, conductors, directors, and designers who bring these powerful stories to life, discussing everything from vocal technique and set construction to the emotional core of a character. Episodes might delve into a beloved European classic one week and a groundbreaking new American work the next, reflecting the company’s dynamic repertoire. This isn't just a lecture about music and drama; it's an immersive audio experience where you can listen to artists explain their craft, hear snippets of rehearsals, and gain a deeper appreciation for opera as a living, collaborative art form. Tune in to this podcast for conversations that are as passionate and detailed as the productions themselves, all brought to you directly from the heart of Seattle's opera community.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 131

Seattle Opera Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Loving Wagner, Hating Wagner...and the Middle Path [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:56
Seattle Opera Scholar-in-Residence Naomi André and Dramaturg Jonathan Dean discuss the most controversial of all opera composers, Richard Wagner, whose DIE WALKÜRE the company will present, in concert (and abridged) at F…
OF MICE AND MEN Intermission Chat with MELANIE ROSS [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:40
For KING FM's re-broadcast of Seattle Opera's 1976 OF MICE AND MEN, Dramaturg Jonathan Dean interviewed Melanie Ross about the early days of Seattle Opera and the work of her father, Seattle Opera founding General Direct…
[not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 0:00
Stephen Wadsworth, a vital member of Seattle Opera's artistic family, discussed Handel's XERXES with Christina Scheppelmann for a radio re-broadcast in March 2021. Wadsworth, who made his debut directing Seattle Opera's…
COUNT ORY Discussion with Giacomo Sagripanti [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:39
Giacomo Sagripanti conducted Rossini's wicked French comedy, Count Ory, at Seattle Opera in 2016. He recently discussed this great work and Rossini with General Director Christina Scheppelmann.
RING Intermission Chat with PHIL KELSEY [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:07
Phil Kelsey, Seattle Opera's Assistant Conductor, chatted during an intermission of GÖTTERDÄMMERUNG with Christina Scheppelmann when Seattle Opera re-broadcast its 2005 RING cycle on KING-FM in February. Phil, who can co…
RING Intermission Chat with musicians Kathy Boyer and Mark Robbins [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:51
Violinist Kathy Boyer and horn soloist Mark Robbins chatted during an intermission of Siegfried when Seattle Opera re-broadcast its 2005 RING cycle on KING-FM in February. Listen to their stories of playing this brillian…
RING Intermission Chat with Tech wizards Connie Yun and Tim Buck [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:55
Lighting Designer Connie Yun and Master Carpenter Tim Buck (who designed the RING's fire & flight effects) chatted during an intermission of DIE WALKÜRE when Seattle Opera re-broadcast its 2005 RING cycle on KING-FM in F…