Der Freischütz, eine romantische Oper in 3 Aufzügen (The Freeshooter, a romantic Opera in 3 Acts), is an opera with music by Carl Maria von Weber and libretto by Friedrich Kind. It is considered the first important German Romantic opera, especially in its national identity and stark emotionality. Its plot was taken from German folk legend and many of its tunes were inspired by German folk music. Its unearthly portrayal of the supernatural is especially poignant in the famous Wolf's Glen scene. Despite its daring innovations (and some scathing attacks by critics) it quickly became an international success, with some fifty performances in the first 18 months after its June 18, 1821 premiere in Berlin. Among the many artists influenced by Der Freischütz was a young Richard Wagner, who would come to be seen by many as Weber's successor. Der Freischütz is catalogued both as Op. 77 and J. 277. It first appeared in print in 1821. A standard performance of the complete opera takes around 2 hours.
