>>>Waffling on a bit here
Well I can't argue with that bit (but, as a superb 'waffler' myself, I can't object to it either!).
However your post seems to be sure to destroy your reputation as a natural 'clubber', who likes nothing more than listening to the pounding beats of Brighton's nightspots ;-)
Wagner, eh? And the Ring Cycle as well! I admit to enjoying the more popular elements of it (such as 'The Ride of the Valkyries' from Act III of 'Die Walküre') but I've never been sure as to whether I could handle the whole thing in one go. Even if I could, I'd probaby seek out a recording with a great conductor (such as Wilhelm Furtwängler) rather than looking for eminent soloists.
This video has nothing to do with Wagner (as its Johann Strauss) but, having established that you enjoy classical music, I hope that you'll enjoy it. (It's one of my favourite Youtube videos):