Richard Wagner was a German composer, conductor, and theater director who is best known for his operas. He was a controversial figure in his time due to his innovative musical style and his strong influence on the development of opera. Wagner's works, such as "The Ring Cycle" and "Tristan und Isolde," are known for their complex orchestration and rich harmonies. He also wrote extensively on music theory and philosophy, and his ideas had a significant impact on the development of music in the 19th and 20th centuries. Wagner's legacy continues to be influential in the world of opera and classical music.