In the first episode of Opera Tok Season 2, Gold Ringer, musicologist Katherine Wallace discusses the the first opera in Wagenr’s Ring Cycle, Das Rheingold, and its place within Wagner’s works and the Ring Cycle -  introducing the themes and characters of this opera, as well as the historical context of the work.

This year, we are teaming up with our friends from The Orchestra of the Music Makers to explore the work of one composer, and probably one of the most celebrated AND controversial composers in opera, Richard Wagner. This is ahead of the Orchestra of the Music Makers’ performance of the first opera of Wagner’s epic Ring Cycle, Das Rheingold, on July 8. 

Over 6 episodes, we will be speaking with experts and musicians to unpack Wagner’s work, discuss some of the issues and how they translate to us in the 21st Century, and to explore the ways in which these works continue to be relevant in uncovering the conflicts in human nature that have led to many of the global issues we face today.  From mythology and Game of Thrones to climate change and the environment, join us as we descend into the worlds of Richard Wagner and his operas. 

Kopi & Song is produced by MeaVox Live, and hosted by Shridar Mani.