Richard Strauss: Don Quixote. Till Eulenspiegel

Immerse yourself in the rich, dramatic world of Richard Strauss with this captivating album, released on September 3, 2021, by harmonia mundi. This collection showcases two of Strauss's most celebrated orchestral works: "Don Quixote, Op. 35" and "Till Eulenspiegels lustige Streiche, Op. 28," along with the enchanting "Romanze for Cello and Orchestra, TrV. 118." Clocking in at just over an hour, this album is a testament to Strauss's mastery of orchestration and his ability to bring literary characters to life through music.

"Don Quixote" is a tone poem that vividly illustrates the adventures of Miguel de Cervantes' iconic knight. Each variation in the piece represents a different episode from the novel, from the battle with the sheep to the knight's vigil and his eventual defeat. The Gürzenich-Orchester Köln, conducted by François-Xavier Roth, brings these tales to life with a performance that is both nuanced and powerful, featuring the exceptional cello playing of Jean-Guihen Queyras.

Complementing "Don Quixote" is "Till Eulenspiegels lustige Streiche," a lively and witty tone poem that depicts the mischievous adventures of the legendary prankster Till Eulenspiegel. The Gürzenich-Orchester Köln delivers a performance filled with sparkle and graphic drama, capturing the essence of this playful character.

The album also includes the "Romanze for Cello and Orchestra," a beautiful and expressive piece that showcases the lyrical qualities of the cello. Jean-Guihen Queyras's performance is both tender and impassioned, making this a standout track on the album.

This album is a must-listen for fans of classical music and orchestral works, offering a rich and engaging exploration of Richard Strauss's compositions. The Gürzenich-Orchester Köln, under the direction of François-Xavier Roth, delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant, making this a standout release in the world of classical music.