
Some of us that still own that disc, have long wondered what "modern operating systems" - with their emphasis on multimedia - could do along similar lines. "Wagner - The Ring" Ipad app from Naxos, whilst having nowhere near the range or scope of the "Ring Disc" may provide us with the closest answer we have so far. This is especially so in regard to the development of the leitmotifs throughout the Ring. Indeed, this is central to the app - but more of this in moment.

65 leitmotifs are investigated using a total of 130 audio clips (from the Naxos recordings, performed by the Stuttgart State Opera and Orchestra under Lothar Zagrosek.). If you wish, you can simply find a list of the leitmotifs and listen to one - reading a very good explanation of each from app authors Martin and Rachel Walters. However, a reader will get the most out of this app as they use it to investigate each within the context of each drama and note its development within the entire cycle - made easy due to the app's design.
To do so, simply select one of the dramas from the main menu and click on the name of the leitmotif within that drama (they are listed in the order they appear first in each work). This is useful enough in-itself, but two other factors add much to this: Martin and Rachel Walters' commentary and their investigation of each as they follow that leitmotif's development and use throughout the cycle.

On the negative side, while a full, detailed synopsis of each drama is included, it is difficult to understand why a full libretto was not. It seems a missed opportunity and would have added much to the apps value. Although those new to the Ring will easily benefit from the synopsis.
Overall, a valuable and worthy addition to material relating to the Ring - and the leitmotifs especially. While especially useful to those new to the Ring, more seasoned explorers of Wagner's work will also find much to enjoy.
Features:
- 130 audio clips: 65 different leitmotifs isolated from the operas.
- Extended audio clips: eight tracks, two from each opera.
- An explanation of each leitmotif example.
- Each leitmotif example in musical notation.
- Biographical text about Richard Wagner.
- Clear synopses of the operas.
- Information about the operas in performance.
- Audio comments from renowned tenor, Simon O’Neill.
- Further Reading
- Photographs
All musical excerpts are taken from the Naxos recordings of the dramas, performed by the Stuttgart State Opera and Orchestra under Lothar Zagrosek.
Price: £5.99/$8.99
(Reviewed on Ipad Mini)