1. Leitmotifs: Wagner used leitmotifs, recurring musical phrases or themes, to represent specific characters, emotions, or objects in the drama. These leitmotifs were often introduced in the orchestra before their associated characters or events appeared on stage, creating a sense of anticipation and connection between the music and the drama.
2. Orchestral Interludes: Wagner often used orchestral interludes between scenes or acts to reflect and comment on the preceding stage action. These interludes provided opportunities for the orchestra to convey emotions and narrate events without dialogue or physical movement on stage.
3. Melodic and Harmonic Expression: Wagner's music was highly expressive, employing rich melodies, harmonies, and orchestral colours to evoke specific moods and atmospheres. The orchestra's musical language reflected the emotional state of the characters and the dramatic situations unfolding on stage.
4. Use of the Entire Orchestra: Wagner expanded the role of the orchestra in his music dramas, utilizing all sections to create a rich and varied soundscape. He treated the orchestra as a unified instrument, capable of expressing a wide range of emotions and colours, supporting and enhancing the action on stage.
5. Sound Symbolism: Wagner used specific orchestral techniques to represent or symbolize objects or actions in the drama. For example, he might use high-pitched instruments to denote a sense of elevation or spirituality or low-pitched instruments to suggest mystery or darkness.
6. Contrapuntal Writing: Wagner often employed complex contrapuntal writing, where multiple musical lines and melodies interwoven simultaneously. This intricate musical texture mirrored the complexity of the dramatic storylines and character relationships.
7. Chromaticism and Tonality: Wagner's music frequently employed chromatic harmonies and unusual tonal shifts, which created a sense of instability and unease in the musical atmosphere. These musical elements enhanced the dramatic intensity and emotional depth of the stage action.
8. Voice and Orchestra Integration: Wagner carefully integrated the voices of the singers with the orchestra, allowing them to blend seamlessly. The orchestra provided a rich musical backdrop that supported and complemented the vocal lines, enhancing the overall dramatic effect.
Overall, Wagner's new music drama aimed to create a unified experience where music, drama, and stagecraft were inextricably linked. Through the use of leitmotifs, orchestral interludes, expressive melodies, and harmonies, Wagner established a deep connection between the music and stage action, immersing the audience in a multi-sensory experience.