Behind the Ring–Wagner Symposium @ Siegfried

You are invited to a Siegfried Symposium for an in-depth look at Richard Wagner’s Siegfried and the development of The Atlanta Opera’s first Ring Cycle. Meet the speakers in a panel presentation and hear about the work from Jay Hunter Morris–one of the greatest artists of our time to perform the role of Siegfried, and author and commentator William Berger.

10 – 11:15am
Finding the Veins of Gold in Siegfried, the Heart of The Ring

What is this supposedly elusive opera–on its own and as one installment of The Ring of the Nibelung, and why is it the way it is? What was Wagner trying to say, and what could he possibly have had to say to us, here, now, that we need to hear? Can a work of art that is so flat-out wrong in so many ways be spectacularly right in others at the same time?

speaker: William Berger
William Berger is an author, a broadcast commentator for the Metropolitan Opera, and writes the “Opera Quiz.” He lectures frequently on artistic, political, and other topics, and supports and creates new music in a vast array of genres. Full Bio >

11:15 – 12:30pm
My So-Called Wagnerian Life

Considered the Mount Olympus of opera, the Ring demands singers at the top of their craft. Join us for an insightful session with Jay Hunter Morris, renowned as one of the greatest Siegfrieds of our time. He will delve into the challenges of scaling these musical heights, explore why so few brave the endeavor, and share a few captivating tales from his journey.

speaker: Jay Hunter Morris
Jay Hunter Morris famously starred as Siegfried at the Metropolitan Opera in the Robert LePage production. He also won a Grammy for Best Opera Recording. Jay studied at Juilliard and has created roles in eight World Premiere operas and numerous works for concert and orchestra … Full Bio >

12:30 – 12:45pm
Break

12:45 – 2pm
Behind the Sword: A Siegfried Panel Discussion

Join us for an in-depth exploration of Siegfried from those who bring it to life on stage. Moderated by opera expert William Berger, this discussion features director Tomer Zvulun, set designer Erhard Rom, and acclaimed tenor Jay Hunter Morris. Together, they’ll share insights into the creative and logistical challenges of staging Wagner’s epic work, from visionary direction and set design to the demands of performing one of opera’s most formidable roles.

Moderator: William Berger
Panelists: Tomer Zvulun, The Atlanta Opera, Carl W. Knobloch, Jr. General & Artistic Director
Erhard Rom, Scenic & Projection Designer
Jay Hunter Morris, renowned for his performances as Siegfried