Procession to the Minster (Lohengrin)

Richard Wagner (1813-1883) born in Leipzig, was largely sef taught in music. His stylistic development of the music drama with its harmonic extremes were far reaching in their influence on music and theater.

"Lohengrin," composed in 1848, is the story of a knight, Lohengrin, who defeats the enemy of Elsa, princess of Brabant. He marries her upon her promise that she will never ask his origin or name. Ultimately, she forgets this promise and Lohengrin leaves her.

This piece, also known as "Elsa's Procession to the Cathedral," occurs at Act II, Scene 4, where all are going to the Minster for the ceremony that will occur at the beginning of Act III, which has the famous Prelude and Bridal Chorus.You can hear phrases from "Here comes the Bride" in this... ;-)

This work was skillfully transcribed by Sir A. Herbert Brewer (1865-1925), the famous Organist of Gloucester Cathedral.

I dedicate this performance to Corey Smies (qudomo), one of our newer members, who was EXTREMEMLY helpful by making a significant suggestion about solving the winding issues of the Hoboken Wirsching!!!

THANK YOU, Corey! :-)