Immerse yourself in the rich, orchestral world of Richard Strauss with this captivating album, released on September 3, 2021, by harmonia mundi. The album showcases Strauss's mastery of classical composition through two of his most renowned works: "Don Quixote, Op. 35, TrV 184" and "Till Eulenspiegels lustige Streiche, Op. 28."
"Don Quixote" is a symphonic poem that vividly brings to life the adventures of the titular character from Miguel de Cervantes' novel. Each variation in this orchestral suite depicts a different episode from Don Quixote's quests, from his battle with windmills to his final, poignant journey home. The work is a testament to Strauss's ability to convey narrative and emotion through music, with the cello serving as the voice of Don Quixote and the orchestra painting the colorful backdrop of his adventures.
Complementing "Don Quixote" is "Till Eulenspiegels lustige Streiche," another symphonic poem that tells the tale of the mischievous German folk hero Till Eulenspiegel. This lively and witty piece showcases Strauss's skill in creating vivid musical characters and engaging narratives.
The album also includes Strauss's "Romanze for Cello and Orchestra, TrV. 118," a beautiful and lyrical piece that highlights the expressive range of the cello.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Richard Strauss's orchestral genius. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album is a fantastic addition to any music collection.
Don Quixote, Op. 35, TrV 184: Thema. Mäßig (Don Quixote, Knight of the Doleful Countenance) – Maggiore (Sancho Panza)Richard Strauss, François-Xavier Roth, Gürzenich Orchester Köln, Jean-Guihen Queyras, Tabea Zimmermann
Don Quixote, Op. 35, TrV 184: Variation I. Gemächlich (The adventure with the windmills)Richard Strauss, François-Xavier Roth, Gürzenich Orchester Köln, Jean-Guihen Queyras, Tabea Zimmermann
Don Quixote, Op. 35, TrV 184: Variation II. Kriegerisch (The battle with the sheep)Richard Strauss, François-Xavier Roth, Gürzenich Orchester Köln, Jean-Guihen Queyras, Tabea Zimmermann
Don Quixote, Op. 35, TrV 184: Variation III. Mäßiges Zeitmaß (Dialogue between knight and squire)Richard Strauss, François-Xavier Roth, Gürzenich Orchester Köln, Jean-Guihen Queyras, Tabea Zimmermann
Don Quixote, Op. 35, TrV 184: Variation IV. Etwas breiter (The adventure with the pilgrims)Richard Strauss, François-Xavier Roth, Gürzenich Orchester Köln, Jean-Guihen Queyras, Tabea Zimmermann
Don Quixote, Op. 35, TrV 184: Variation V. Sehr langsam (The knight's vigil)Richard Strauss, François-Xavier Roth, Gürzenich Orchester Köln, Jean-Guihen Queyras, Tabea Zimmermann
Don Quixote, Op. 35, TrV 184: Variation VI. Schnell (The meeting with Dulcinea)Richard Strauss, François-Xavier Roth, Gürzenich Orchester Köln, Jean-Guihen Queyras, Tabea Zimmermann
Don Quixote, Op. 35, TrV 184: Variation VII. Ein wenig ruhiger als vorher (The ride through the air)Richard Strauss, François-Xavier Roth, Gürzenich Orchester Köln, Jean-Guihen Queyras, Tabea Zimmermann
Don Quixote, Op. 35, TrV 184: Variation VIII. Gemächlich (The voyage in the enchanted boat)Richard Strauss, François-Xavier Roth, Gürzenich Orchester Köln, Jean-Guihen Queyras, Tabea Zimmermann
Don Quixote, Op. 35, TrV 184: Variation IX. Schnell und stürmisch (The contest with the supposed enchanters)Richard Strauss, François-Xavier Roth, Gürzenich Orchester Köln, Jean-Guihen Queyras, Tabea Zimmermann
Don Quixote, Op. 35, TrV 184: Variation X. Viel breiter (The duel with the Knight of the White Moon – The defeated Don Quixote's journey home)Richard Strauss, François-Xavier Roth, Gürzenich Orchester Köln, Jean-Guihen Queyras, Tabea Zimmermann
Don Quixote, Op. 35, TrV 184: Finale. Sehr ruhig (Death of Don Quixote)Richard Strauss, François-Xavier Roth, Gürzenich Orchester Köln, Jean-Guihen Queyras, Tabea Zimmermann