Richard Wagner: A Biography

Derek Watson's biography of Wagner is concise while providing cultural context for this amazing musical genius's life. Wagner did not lead the life of a closeted composer. Rather he led a protean existence that saw him on the battlements in 1848; traveling throughout Europe, in Paris and elsewhere promoting his new music; making love to multiple women; and more. The life is one that deserves the many biographers that have been attracted to it. This short volume is a great introduction to one who defined Romanticism with his actions: a towering artist, writer, thinker, and musician. Simply a genius of the nineteenth century. ( )