Which statement about Wagner's Tristan und Isolde is true?

• A. It is a four-hour opera that signaled a major change to the harmonic language and emphasizes chromaticism
• B. It is a light comic opera in two acts
• C. It uses strict diatonic harmony typical of the Classical period
• D. It is a symphony arranged for chorus

Answer: (A)

The key idea here is how Tristan und Isolde marks a turning point in harmony. Wagner moves away from the clear, functional diatonic harmony of the Classical era and increasingly uses chromatic, nonfunctional progressions to heighten emotion and tension. This creates a sense of tonal ambiguity that feels forward-looking for its time. The work is known for its substantial length—performances typically run around four hours—and for its continuous musical flow, with no breaks between scenes in the way later operas might structure numbers. A famous moment—the lingering, dissonant chord that postpones resolution—embodies this shift, signaling a break from traditional tonal resolution toward a more modern, chromatic language. It’s a serious tragedy presented as a fully staged drama, not a light comic piece, and it isn’t a symphony arranged for chorus.