Reflections on Wagner's Ring

by John Culshaw

This book represents lectures presented by John Culshaw during the Metropolitan Opera broadcast of the entire Ring of the Nibelungs in early 1975. The author discusses Das Rheingold, Die Walkure, Siegfried, & Gotterdammerung plus a final chapter on what he terms "the impossible vision". By this he means the ever elusive concept of a perfect Ring production, a feat whose impossibility is part of the enduring fascination of the work itself. In addition to the text, there are a few black & white photos throughout the book.

Genres: Music

105 pages, Hardcover

First published March 26, 1976

Reviews

[George Hunka]

Certainly one of the two best short introductory books about Wagner, along with Bryan Magee’s fine “Aspects of Wagner.” Culshaw’s practical deep experience with the Ring — he produced the classic Solti Decca recording — is evident throughout.

[Lawrence]

This is a short book (100 plus pages) on the Ring of the Nibelung by Richard Wagner. It is a compilation of four lectures (plus a chapter on production history and ideas about production and expense) that were presented, I think, on radio in 1975 for the Metropolitan Opera broadcast sponsored by Texaco. Each essay covers one of the Ring's operas. Although they assume some familiarity with the operas and some sense of interest and desire to learn more, they are very concise and informative. They are written in an easy style. Try it!

[James]

Were it not for a literal public outcry, this book would never have been published. So happy it was accomplished. I read this in one weekend, nearly half before leaving the library. Two things each person must do in a lifetime: experience the entire Ring Cycle and read this book.

[Kate]

The first four chapters are essential reading for any viewer of "The Ring".