Richard Strauss: Don Quixote, Op. 35 / Don Juan, Op. 20 / Till Eulenspiegels lustige Streiche, Op. 28

Immerse yourself in the rich, dramatic world of Richard Strauss with this captivating album, released on Lawo Classics. This collection brings together three of Strauss's most renowned orchestral works: "Don Quixote, Op. 35," "Don Juan, Op. 20," and "Till Eulenspiegels lustige Streiche, Op. 28." Conducted by the acclaimed Vasily Petrenko and performed by the Oslo Philharmonic, this recording is a testament to the power and precision of Strauss's compositions.

"Don Quixote, Op. 35" is a tone poem that vividly depicts the adventures of the titular character from Miguel de Cervantes' novel. Through intricate orchestration and dynamic contrasts, Strauss brings to life the chivalrous yet delusional knight and his faithful squire, Sancho Panza. The piece is divided into variations, each illustrating a different episode from the novel, culminating in a poignant finale that reflects on Don Quixote's demise.

"Don Juan, Op. 20" is a sweeping, dramatic work that portrays the legendary seducer through a series of musical motifs and themes. Strauss's masterful use of the orchestra creates a sense of urgency and passion, capturing the essence of Don Juan's relentless pursuit of love and conquest.

"Till Eulenspiegels lustige Streiche, Op. 28" is a playful and energetic piece that tells the story of the mischievous German folk hero Till Eulenspiegel. Through a series of musical jokes and pranks, Strauss brings to life the trickster's antics, culminating in a final, dramatic confrontation with the authorities.

This album, recorded in 2019, offers a unique opportunity to experience the full range of Richard Strauss's orchestral genius. With a total runtime of 1 hour and 16 minutes, it's a compelling journey through some of the most evocative and dramatic music in the classical repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.