Wagner: Tannhauser

The Romantic opera centers on the minstrel Tannhäuser's conflict between sacred and profane love, set against the backdrop of a singing contest. He is torn between his sensual time spent with the goddess Venus in the Venusberg and his pure love for the virtuous Elisabeth. Ultimately, Elisabeth's sacrifice secures his spiritual redemption.

The opera was first performed at the Dresden Hofoper in 1845. Wagner subsequently revised the score, most notably for the 1861 Paris production, which added the famous Bacchanale in the first act. The Paris premiere is historically infamous for being disrupted by members of the wealthy Jockey Club.

The 'Tannhäuser Overture' is frequently performed as a standalone piece in orchestral concerts. It famously contrasts the solemn, religious hymn of the pilgrims with the frenzied, sensual music of the Venusberg. The overture serves as a musical summary of the opera's central thematic conflict.

Tannhäuser is a full-length German opera composed in three acts. The narrative spans from the mythological realm of Venus inside a mountain to the historical setting of the Wartburg Castle. Each act shifts dramatically in setting to highlight Tannhäuser's internal and external journeys.