Wagner's The Ring of the Nibelung- Course at OLLI taught by WSWDC Chairman Jim Holman!
REGISTRATION OPEN! Jim Holman will conduct a guided tour of Wagner's Ring in 8 lectures as we approach the premiere's 150th anniversary . Jim is engaging and entertaining to both novices and seasoned Wagnerians. Offered through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at American University.
Date
8 weekly lectures beginning 9/30/2025
OLLI at American University, 4801 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA
Details
FALL REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
Be sure to register before the fall semester lottery on Monday, September 8.
Jim Holman will present eight lectures offering a guided tour through music's magnum opus. Wagner's Ring represents a towering turning point in the history of music and theater, and is a source of unending analysis across many fields. For 150 years, its production has been the ultimate goal of opera companies everywhere. Leading the way through each of the cycle's four music dramas, Mr. Holman will offer extended video excerpts, together with commentary on The Ring's origins, creative history, revolutionary music, and other aspects, encouraging active class participation.
Jim Holman has written and edited various books on the life and music of Richard Wagner, including the scholarly and approachable Wagner's Ring: A Listener's Companion and Concordance, recommended reading for this course. Jim has lectured throughout the country and has conducted OLLI classes on Wagner for several years.
Classes will be held in-person at the American University campus on Tuesday mornings, 9:45 am - 11:15 am, starting September 30, 2025.
The course will be offered through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at American University - registration now is open for the fall semester (September 15 - December 5). Register for classes by joining OLLI and paying the membership fee, currently $330 per semester, or $600 for both fall and spring. Members may register for up to three courses per semester, so be sure to review the catalog for additional courses. The membership fee allows you to sign up for three courses before the lottery. After the lottery, when you have received your class assignment letter, you can add a fourth study group by logging into your account. Purchase your OLLI membership here.
Be sure to register before the fall semester lottery on Monday, September 8.
NEW MEMBER 10% DISCOUNT
If you are new to OLLI or thinking about coming back after taking a break, click HERE to register for the fall semester. A 10% discount will be applied for those who are new or who have not taken classes in five or more years. Click "Choose Lottery Selections" and then log in or create an account. You will see the discount when paying for the semester.