A Twist at Wagner’s Bayreuth Stronghold: 35 of 100 Full Members Are Korean

The surprising detail from Wagner’s Bayreuth Festival is not found in the orchestra pit or among the celebrated soloists. Of the festival’s 100 full members, 35 are Korean, a striking presence at what is often regarded as a Wagner stronghold.

Last month, during the festival’s 150th anniversary year, the columnist watched Wagner’s four-part Ring cycle. It was the third and final Ring cycle of the year.

The chorus did not immediately draw attention in Das Rheingold or Die Walküre. In both works, the soloists carry the drama, and there is no chorus at all. The observation sets up the article’s focus on the singers who become more noticeable elsewhere in the cycle.

The columnist, who spent 33 years at a newspaper and 28 years covering culture, writes from long experience attending opera, concerts, musicals and ballet. A personal goal is to see performances at Europe’s leading opera houses and concert halls at least twice.