Michael Tanner (1935-2024)

A note from Lizzie Graham on the recent death of Michael Tanner:

“Martin and I were so sorry to learn of the death of Michael Tanner – one of the great commentators on Wagner and somebody who was always honest in his reviews while at the same time being very generous and understanding. 

I loved talking to him when he was here – his knowledge of and enthusiasm for Wagner seemed limitless. He once told me that every politician should be made to experience the Ring cycle to understand the limits of their ambitions, and the inevitable end to which those ambitions would lead them.

An enthusiastic supporter of Wagner at Longborough as well as being personally very kind to us, he was a wise and inspiring man who will be greatly missed.

We’ve also just heard the sad news of the death of Nic Folwell – our first Alberich, and one much admired by Michael Tanner. Our condolences to his family."