Harvey: Wagner Dream

Dive into the enigmatic world of Jonathan Harvey's "Wagner Dream," a captivating avant-garde opera that transcends traditional musical boundaries. Released in 2012 under the Cypres label, this album is a testament to Harvey's innovative compositional style, blending classical opera with contemporary avant-garde elements.

"Wagner Dream" is an operatic exploration inspired by the final moments of Richard Wagner's life and his unfinished opera "Die Sieger." The opera weaves together Wagner's personal dramas with Buddhist legends, creating a rich tapestry of sound and narrative. The album features nine scenes and an interlude, each meticulously crafted to immerse the audience in a unique auditory experience.

The opera premiered in 2007 and received its British premiere at the Barbican Centre in London in January 2012, followed by its first fully-staged UK performance by the Welsh National Opera in Cardiff in June 2013. This recording, conducted by Martyn Brabbins, captures the essence of these performances, offering a profound listening experience that spans over an hour and thirty-three minutes.

Jonathan Harvey's "Wagner Dream" is not just an album but a journey through the mind of a genius, exploring themes of life, death, and the interplay between Eastern and Western philosophies. The use of Sanskrit ceremonial texts and Pali, an ancient Indian language, adds layers of cultural depth, making this opera a truly global musical experience. Whether you are a fan of classical opera, avant-garde music, or simply appreciate innovative composition, "Wagner Dream" is an album that will challenge and inspire.