What was Richard concept of leitmotiv?

Richard Wagner's concept of leitmotiv, also spelled leitmotif or leit theme, is a musical phrase or theme associated with a particular character, place, or idea. It is often used in opera and other dramatic works to reinforce the narrative and create emotional connections between the audience and the characters.

Wagner's leitmotivs were often based on existing melodies or musical motifs, but he would often alter or transform them to suit the specific context. For example, the leitmotiv associated with the character of Siegfried in his opera "Der Ring des Nibelungen" is based on the traditional German folk song "Siegfrieds Horn." However, Wagner changed the melody and orchestration of the song to create a more heroic and majestic theme.

Leitmotivs can also be used to symbolize abstract concepts or ideas. For example, in Wagner's opera "Tristan und Isolde," the leitmotiv associated with the love between the two title characters is a chromatic melody that rises and falls in waves, symbolizing the intense and passionate nature of their relationship.

Wagner's use of leitmotivs was highly influential on later composers, and the technique is now widely used in film music and other forms of dramatic music.