Gods and Heroes: Verdi vs Wagner

Verdi and Wagner created many of the world's best-loved operas that are among the most performed in the repertoire today. Their lives were similar in some aspects. They were both born in the same year and were caught up in the political, social and cultural upheaval of Europe in the 19th century and emerged as supporters of change in Italy and Germany respectively.

But musically they were worlds apart. Verdi perfected an existing operatic tradition, following on from Rossini, Donizetti and Bellini, while Wagner created a whole new structure and style, upending long-established conventions championed by Beethoven and influencing musical composition for decades to come.

The Richard Wagner Association (Singapore) is excited to present an evening of arias that will show the contrasting styles and objectives of the two composers through excerpts from Verdi's Il Trovatore and Wagner's Tannhäuser. The performers are Shaun Lee, Wendy Woon, Chieko Trevatt and Greg McCreanor, with Samuel King on the piano. A narrator will guide you through the pieces.