Richard Strauss: Oboe Concerto; Till Eulenspiegel; Rosenkavalier Waltzes; Lutoslawski: Double Concerto

Richard Strauss's exquisite compositions take centre stage in this captivating album, released on 11 October 2011 by Musical Concepts. The renowned Swiss oboist Heinz Holliger masterfully delivers Strauss's Oboe Concerto, showcasing his technical prowess and expressive depth. Additionally, Holliger is joined by his wife, Ursula Holliger, on harp, in a beautiful rendition of Witold Lutoslawski's Double Concerto for Oboe, Harp, and Chamber Orchestra.

The album also features two of Strauss's most beloved orchestral works: 'Till Eulenspiegel' and the waltzes from his comic opera 'Der Rosenkavalier'. These pieces, performed by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra under the batons of Michael Gielen and Thomas Schippers, demonstrate Strauss's mastery of orchestration and his ability to craft memorable, hummable melodies.

With a duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, this album is a must-listen for classical music enthusiasts. Richard Strauss's works are beautifully complemented by Lutoslawski's unique composition, making for a compelling and varied listening experience. The combination of Holliger's exceptional oboe playing, the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra's rich sound, and the expert conducting of Gielen and Schippers, results in a truly unforgettable musical experience.

Richard Strauss, born in Munich in 1864, stands as one of the most influential composers of the late Romantic and early modern eras. Renowned for his powerful tone poems and operas, Strauss's music is a testament to his mastery of orchestration and harmonic innovation. His works, such as "Der Rosenkavalier," "Salome," and "Also sprach Zarathustra," showcase his dramatic intensity and grandeur, earning him a place among the greats like Richard Wagner and Franz Liszt. Strauss's compositions, particularly his operas, are celebrated for their soaring intensity and dramatic power, making him a pivotal figure in classical music. His legacy endures, captivating audiences with his profound and emotionally rich musical narratives.