In 1813, Europe was on the verge of colossal change politically, socially, and economically. Interestingly, this year also marked the birth of two of the most influential composers of the nineteenth century, Giuseppe Verdi and Richard Wagner, who would change the class of music history up to our present day. The lives of Verdi and Wagner tantalizingly map alongside developments in their respective homelands, and their operatic works are still amongst the most popular operas performed to this day. And yet, it can sometimes be difficult to understand and listen to the work of these enigmatic—and often controversial—artists. Join JMU’s Director of Opera Theatre for a fascinating class exploring the life and times of these two fascinating composers, exploring how historical context helps us listen to music of the past.