Wagner’s ‘Tristan und Isolde’ from Bayreuth Festival Airs This Saturday on WHRO 90.3

This Saturday at 1:00 p.m., WHRO FM 90.3 presents Richard Wagner’s “Tristan und Isolde,” a monumental work that epitomizes the concept of the “Gesamtkunstwerk,” or "total work of art." This opera, a masterpiece of romantic tragedy, delves deep into the mystical and intense bond between the two titular lovers and is recognized as a culmination of Wagner’s artistic quest to unite music, drama, and visual art into a single, all-encompassing experience.

“Tristan und Isolde” portrays the tragic romance between the knight Tristan and Princess Isolde. Set in the medieval era, the story revolves around their illicit love, sparked by a magic potion. Isolde is betrothed to King Marke, and Tristan is his nephew and loyal champion; but despite all obstacles their passion grows, ultimately leading to a heartbreaking end. The opera explores the themes of longing, destiny, and self-sacrifice, with Wagner’s music amplifying the characters' intense emotions and inner conflicts.

This performance, recorded at the prestigious Bayreuth Festival, features the powerful Andreas Schager as Tristan and the stunning Camilla Nylund as Isolde. Joining them are Günther Groissböck, Olafur Sigurdarson, and Victoria Karkacheva as Brangäne. The acclaimed conductor Semyon Bychkov leads the orchestra, delivering a performance renowned for its emotional depth and lush soundscapes.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this revolutionary work that broke with traditional operatic norms and left a profound influence on the world of music. This Saturday, tune in to WHRO FM 90.3, or listen online, for an unforgettable music journey into love, fate, and the sublime.