Wilhelm Richard Wagner, a 19th century German composer and animal lover, would take advice from his dog Peps when composing his music, including his famous 1845 opera Tannhäuser.
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| Minna, Richard Wagner's first wife, holding Peps |
Richard Wagner noticed that his dog Peps, a Cavalier King Charles spaniel, had a strong appreciation for music, and would respond differently to melodies depending upon their musical keys. According to Wagner's biographer, Peps constantly sat near his master at the piano and would sometimes howl piteously into his face, suggesting the music did not suit him. If it didn't suit Peps, it didn't suit Wagner. Some critics commented that Peps was the only critic Wagner ever listened to.
When Peps became ill with little life left in him, Wagner scarcely left his dog's side - even putting off important work. After Peps passed away, the composer wrote to his friend Praeger: "He died in my arms on the night of the ninth, passing away without a sound, quietly and peacefully. On the morrow we buried him in the garden beside the house. I cried much, and since then I have felt bitter pain and sorrow for the dear friend of the past thirteen years."