Wedding March with War of the Roses - Wagner and Mendelssohn in Leipzig

15.6.2022 – 4.9.2022
Studio exhibition

Böttchergäßchen Building, Böttchergäßchen 3, 04109 Leipzig

Harmony or dissonance? That is the question! At least, when it comes to two of the most powerful musicians in Leipzig history. Even though, later in his life, Richard Wagner publicly disparaged Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy, he had initially admired him as a role model and tried to approach him. Wagner sent him several letters and even a symphony; however, his pamphlet »Judaism in music« (1850/1868) and individual critical statements pose a stark contrast to Mendelssohn’s views on art and damaged Wagner’s reputation far beyond Leipzig. For this reason, an exact description of these two artists’ biographies and their connections has long been called for – and forms a multi-facetted topic.

For this exhibition project (which will compare these two musical celebrities for the first time), young musicology students of Leipzig University will shed light on their history. Treasures, such as historic documents rarely shown before, from the archives of the Museum of City History will be exhibited: The students will use innovative approaches to contrast personal and musical interactions. From Mendelssohn’s watercolours, the two world-famous wedding marches and posthumous allegations of plagiarism – everything will be covered! However, this exhibition not only conveys knowledge, it is also intended to provide new motivation for visitors to look into the topic of »Mendelssohn and Wagner« for themselves. The recipe for the exhibition – sublime! The baking time – perfect! But in matters of taste – especially with regard to Wagner and Mendelssohn’s music and art – everyone has to try it and decide for themselves.