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The Music of the Future, 1887
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The Music of the Future, 1887
The Music of the Future, 1887. Wagners conception of opera as a unification of musical, poetic and scenic elements, which revolutionised the 19th century conception of the genre, obviously did not always appeal to the ears of the new middle classes. From Punch, or the London Charivari, May 28, 1887
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Media ID 14832013
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Charles Samuel Charles Samuel Keene Composer Heritage Image Partnership Keene Listening Middle Class Piano Social Class
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this print titled "The Music of the Future, 1887" we are transported back to the 19th century where composer Richard Wagner's revolutionary concept of opera is being explored. The image captures a scene in a middle-class home, where a family gathers around a piano for an evening of entertainment. A woman sits at the piano, her fingers gracefully gliding across the keys as she brings Wagner's music to life. Her concentration is evident on her face, reflecting her passion for both music and art. Seated nearby are two children, their eyes fixed on their mother with awe and admiration. They listen intently, captivated by the enchanting melodies filling the room. However, not everyone seems enthralled by Wagner's vision. A man stands apart from the group with a skeptical expression on his face. Perhaps he represents those who were resistant to change or found it difficult to appreciate this new form of artistic expression. This thought-provoking cartoon from Punch magazine highlights how Wagner's unification of musical, poetic, and scenic elements challenged traditional notions of opera and divided public opinion during that time period. It serves as a reminder that great works often encounter resistance before they are fully appreciated and understood. Charles Samuel Keene skillfully captures this moment in history through his intricate detailing and monochrome style. This heritage image partnership print allows us to glimpse into an era when art was evolving rapidly while social classes grappled with accepting these changes into their lives.
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