Research Article

The Implications of Wagner's Gesamtkunstwerk for the Planning of Contemporary Classical Concerts

Renrong DongCentral Conservatory of Music*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

Against the backdrop of an aging audience and the influence of popular culture in classical music, Wagner's Gesamtkunstwerk offers innovative insights for contemporary concert programs. This study employs text analysis and comparative case studies to examine the practical application of Wagner's philosophy in modern concerts, such as the "Echoes of the Silk Road: Tang Dynasty Resonance Concert" at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music and the Silk Road Ensemble led by Yo-Yo Ma. The research results show that integrating multiple art forms such as music, visual arts and dramatic performance can enhance the artistic expressiveness of concerts and significantly increase audience participation and satisfaction. Even with a limited budget, strategies such as themes and multi-sensory stimulation have effectively broadened Wagner's artistic vision, expanded the audience base of classical music, and provided practical suggestions for its contemporary dissemination.

Keywords: Wagner; Comprehensive artistic perspective; Classical concert; Multi-sensory stimulation; Audience reception
Published: November 26, 2025
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2025.NS29980
Volume: CHR Vol.98
pp. 143-151
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