Five-Part Course: Wagner’s Parsifal

In May 2027, the Metropolitan Opera will present Wagner’s Parsifal, his final music drama and one of the most searching works in the operatic repertoire. Since its premiere in 1882, Parsifal has fascinated audiences with its extraordinary fusion of ritual, symbolism, philosophy, and musical invention. This course explores the work from multiple perspectives, beginning with its literary and religious sources, the creation of the libretto, and the circumstances of its composition. Particular attention will be given to Wagner’s use of leitmotif, orchestral color, and harmonic language to create a drama of spiritual struggle, compassion, temptation, and redemption. The course will also consider the reception of this complex and controversial work, its influence on later composers, and the challenges of staging an opera whose action unfolds as much inwardly and symbolically as it does theatrically. Classes will be illustrated with a variety of recordings and videos demonstrating different interpretive approaches by renowned artists.

This course is offered in collaboration with Juilliard Extension.

Five sessions: Tuesdays 6:00 – 7:30pm, March 30 – April 27; in-person only

About the instructor: John J. H. Muller IV is professor emeritus in the Music Department at The Juilliard School and has given independent courses on Wagner and other composers. He presented the Society’s Bayreuth lecture series from 2010 to 2019.

Pricing: Regularly $280, 50% discount for WSNY members ($140) – see email for discount code

Registration Online only via Juilliard Extension or register by phone: (212) 799-5000 ext. 273