Composer

:

Siegfried Wagner

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1915

Average_duration

:

168:17

Der Friedensengel (The Angel of Peace) is an opera composed by Siegfried Wagner, the son of the famous composer Richard Wagner. The opera was composed between 1912 and 1913 and premiered on August 24, 1914, at the Bayreuth Festival. The plot of the opera revolves around the character of the Angel of Peace, who descends to earth to bring an end to the war that is raging between two neighboring countries. The Angel is accompanied by a group of children who represent the innocence and purity of humanity. The Angel's mission is to convince the leaders of the warring nations to lay down their arms and make peace. The opera is divided into three movements. The first movement is set in the palace of the King of one of the warring nations. The King is shown as a ruthless and power-hungry leader who is determined to win the war at any cost. The Angel appears to the King and tries to persuade him to end the war, but the King refuses to listen. The second movement takes place in the palace of the other warring nation. The Queen of this nation is shown as a compassionate and wise leader who is deeply affected by the suffering caused by the war. The Angel appears to the Queen and she agrees to meet with the King to discuss peace. The third movement takes place in a neutral location where the King and Queen meet to negotiate peace. The Angel and the children are present at the meeting and they sing a beautiful hymn that touches the hearts of the leaders. The King and Queen agree to end the war and sign a peace treaty. The Angel and the children then ascend back to heaven, leaving behind a world that is now at peace. The music of Der Friedensengel is characterized by its lush orchestration and soaring melodies. The opera is also notable for its use of choral music, which is used to great effect in the hymn sung by the Angel and the children. Overall, Der Friedensengel is a powerful and moving opera that explores themes of war, peace, and the power of innocence. It is a testament to Siegfried Wagner's talent as a composer and his commitment to carrying on his father's legacy.

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