Two German musicians from the same generation—Richard Wagner (1813–1883) and Jacques Offenbach (1819–1880)—both sought success in Paris, the musical capital of the 19th century. In this vibrant city, Wagner admired the performances of Beethoven’s symphonies by the Société des Concerts du Conservatoire. Paris was also where Offenbach, a child prodigy, began to build his career. By the age of five, Offenbach had already displayed near-perfect mastery of the cello, and by 14, he arrived in Paris, where Jewish musicians could more freely pursue their careers. Despite early setbacks, Offenbach eventually found his place, securing a position in the orchestra of the Opéra-Comique, a major institution of French musical theater.

In contrast, Wagner’s Parisian experience was fraught with disappointment. After fleeing financial troubles in Riga, Wagner arrived in Paris in 1839, hoping to make a name for himself as an opera composer. However, his first concert in Paris was a failure, leaving Wagner disillusioned with the city. Despite this, Wagner’s time in Paris proved to be formative. He developed significant relationships with key figures like Giacomo Meyerbeer and Heinrich Heine, and he discovered the music of Hector Berlioz, which greatly influenced him. Wagner also completed important works during his Parisian years, including Rienzi and The Flying Dutchman.

While Offenbach embraced Paris as his home and rose to prominence there, Wagner left Paris with a deeper understanding of his artistic vision, which would later shape his concept of the Gesamtkunstwerk. Despite their different paths, both musicians were profoundly influenced by their time in Paris, which played a critical role in their respective careers and legacies.