WASHINGTON, MARCH
2004 ———— The Wagner Society of
Washington, D.C. announces a piano lecture by the internationally acclaimed
pianist, composer, and Wagner expert
Tristan
and the Mystic Experience
The Event: Jeffrey Swann believes that from the time of its premier,
Wagner’s Tristan und Isolde has been
considered to be a unique work, not only for innovation, but also in the type
and quality of the experience it produces in the listener. Making considerable use of his expert piano
playing, his keen wit, and his knowledge of Wagner, Jeffrey Swann will explore
that special quality ––– how Tristan is one of those rare artistic
creations that causes in those who experience it the very condition it
awakens. In this respect, Mr. Swann
believes that Tristan recalls the
Gnostic heresies of the early Middle Ages, which asked for re-living religious
and mystic experience, rather than its mere symbolic representation through
reproduction or ritual. Mr. Swann says
“In the deepest sense, Tristan
becomes what it describes.”
The Artist: Jeffrey Swann is renowned throughout Europe and the United
States as a piano recitalist, recording artist, composer, Wagner scholar and
lecturer. He has been awarded top honors
at several major competitions, including the Queen Elizabeth Competition in
Brussels and the Van Cliburn Competition in Ft. Worth. His tours have included recitals in the
major cities of the U.S. and Europe and guests appearances with many of Europes
most noted symphony orchestras. He work
appears on a number of recording labels.
He is a native of Arizona and resides now in New York.
Admission to the
event will be free to Wagner Society members and $15 at the door for all
others. Advanced reservations are
required of all who attend and may be secured by calling the Wagner Society at
301.907.8671, by faxing to 301.907.8671, or by email to auryfern@aol.com by April 12.
The Wagner Society of Washington, D.C. is a private non-profit organization devoted to the study and enjoyment of Richard Wagner’s art. Its monthly programs are continuing through June. Many events are free to members and the public. The Wagner Society welcomes new members and contributions throughout the year. Membership forms and other information are available at the Society’s website or by calling the Society.
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The Wagner Society of Washington, D.C.
P.O. Box 33051 ~
Washington, D.C. 20033
Telephone 301.907.2600 ~
Facsimile 301.907.8671
www.wagner-dc.org