Rienzi, premiered in 1842, was Wagner's first successful opera. Written in the French grand opera style, it offered much action, melodramatic effects and "grand" tunes. Rienzi, "last of the tribunes", is the story of political revolt and intrigue in 14th century Rome. The overture is composed of musical quotes from throughout the opera. The opening violin note appears later as a trumpet signal for revolt. The slow opening theme is taken from Rienzi's prayer for his people, while the march is a rousing battle hymn.

Duration: 7:10.

Instrumentation:conductor -- violin 1 -- violin 2 -- violin 3 -- viola -- violoncello -- contrabass -- piano (for rehearsal only) -- piccolo -- flute 1 -- flute 2 -- oboe 1 -- oboe 2 -- Bb clarinet 1 -- Bb clarinet 2 -- Bb bass clarinet -- bassoon 1 -- basson 2 -- f horn 1 -- f horn 2 -- f horn 3 -- f horn 4 -- Bb trumpet 1 -- Bb trumpet 2 -- trombone 1 -- trombone 2 -- trombone 3 -- tuba -- timpani -- percussion 1 (triangle, field drum) -- perucsion 2 (snare drum,field drum) -- percusion 3 (bass drum, cymbals) -- harp (optional).