Strauss: Josephslegende, Love Scene from Feuersnot & Festmarsch

Immerse yourself in the rich, orchestral world of Richard Strauss with the album "Strauss: Josephslegende, Love Scene from Feuersnot & Festmarsch." Released on June 1, 2013, under the Chandos label, this collection offers a captivating journey through some of Strauss's lesser-known but equally compelling works. The album spans a little over an hour and ten minutes, featuring the complete ballet "Josephslegende," a passionate love scene from the opera "Feuersnot," and the vibrant "Festmarsch."

The "Josephslegende" ballet, composed between 1912 and 1914, is a testament to Strauss's mastery of orchestration. Each of the 25 tracks within this ballet showcases his intricate compositional skills, blending allegro moderato, allegretto, and other dynamic tempos to create a rich tapestry of sound. The Royal Scottish National Orchestra, conducted by Neeme Järvi, brings this work to life with precision and passion, highlighting the depth and complexity of Strauss's score.

Complementing the ballet is the "Love Scene" from "Feuersnot," an opera that concludes with a dramatic and intense moment where Diemut sacrifices her virginity to Kunrad to release a spell on the fires. This scene is a powerful display of Strauss's ability to convey deep emotion through music. The album concludes with the "Festmarsch," a festive march in E-flat Major that adds a celebratory note to the collection.

This album is a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts, offering a rare opportunity to explore some of Richard Strauss's less frequently performed works. The Royal Scottish National Orchestra's performance, conducted by Neeme Järvi, is both nuanced and vibrant, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Strauss's musical legacy.