We have a collection of 9 arrangements for Richard Wagner - Wedding March (from Lohengrin, WWV 75)
What is the common name for Wagner's Wedding March from Lohengrin? Learn!
"Lohengrin," WWV 75, is one of the most famous and beloved operas composed by Richard Wagner. Here are some interesting facts about this opera:
Premiered in 1850: "Lohengrin" had its world premiere on August 28, 1850, at the Deutsches Nationaltheater in Weimar, Germany. This marked an important milestone in Wagner's career as a composer.
Romantic Opera: "Lohengrin" is often categorized as a romantic opera, as it features a richly romantic plot with elements of chivalry, love, and magic.
Libretto by Wagner: Richard Wagner not only composed the music for "Lohengrin" but also wrote the libretto (the text of the opera). He was known for his desire to have complete control over his artistic creations.
Mythological and Folkloric Sources: The story of "Lohengrin" draws from various mythological and folkloric sources. It is based on the legend of the Swan Knight, a popular medieval European tale that also inspired other works of art and literature.
Bridal Chorus: One of the most famous and recognizable pieces from "Lohengrin" is the "Bridal Chorus," often referred to as "Here Comes the Bride." It is commonly played during wedding ceremonies and has become a traditional wedding march.
Themes of Trust and Betrayal: The opera explores themes of trust and betrayal. The character Lohengrin arrives as a mysterious knight to help the heroine Elsa but imposes a condition that she must never ask him about his identity. When she breaks this promise, it leads to a tragic turn of events.
Influence on Later Composers: Wagner's innovative use of leitmotifs (short musical themes associated with specific characters, emotions, or ideas) in "Lohengrin" had a profound impact on the development of opera and film music. Later composers like Richard Strauss and John Williams were influenced by Wagner's use of leitmotifs.
Wagnerian Orchestra: Wagner's orchestration in "Lohengrin" is lush and innovative, featuring the use of the "Wagner tuba," a specially designed brass instrument, which he introduced in this opera to achieve a unique timbre.
Impact on German Nationalism: "Lohengrin" was composed during a time when German nationalism was on the rise. The opera's themes of heroism and a mysterious knight were seen by some as symbolic of the German spirit, contributing to its popularity.
Cultural Significance: "Lohengrin" is considered one of Wagner's most accessible and popular works, making it a staple of the operatic repertoire. It continues to be performed worldwide and has left a lasting cultural impact.
"Lohengrin" is a significant work in the history of opera, known for its beautiful music, memorable characters, and timeless themes.