Richard Wagner

Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg, WWV 96: Suite

Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg (The Master-Singers of Nuremberg), WWV 96 is a music drama/opera in three acts by Richard Wagner (1813-1883). Taking nearly four and a half hours to perform in its entirety, this opera is one of the longest that is commonly performed. It premiered on June 21st, 1868 at the National Theater in Munich, under the baton of Hans von Bülow. Die Meistersinger tells the story of the mid-16th century guild of Meistersinger (Master Singers), which was a collective of amateur poets and musicians. It is also one of Wagner's only comedic operas. This suite from the opera was completed by the composer, and includes chorus along with the orchestra. Sections included from the opera: 1. Vorspiel des 3 Aktes (Introduction to Act 3); 2. Tanz der Lehrbuben (Dance of the Apprentices); 3. Aufzug der Meistersinger (Entry of the Mastersingers); 4. Gruss an Hans Sachs (Homage to Sachs). Instrumentation: 2+1(Picc).2.2.2: 4.3.3.1: Timp.Perc(3): Hp: Str (9.8.7.6.5 in set): (off-stage Tpt & Drum): Mixed Chorus. Reprint edition.