The Philharmonia Orchestra: Santtu conducts Strauss & Shostakovich

About the Event

The Philharmonia has a deep connection with renowned composer Richard Strauss, as he conducted the orchestra in 1947. This longstanding association has fostered a genuine affinity for his music among both the musicians and their Principal Conductor, Santtu.

For this evening's concert, Santtu has curated two of Strauss's tone poems, each with distinct subject matter. 'Death and Transfiguration' narrates the final moments of a man's life, as he reminisces about his past and seeks spiritual enlightenment. It is remarkable that Strauss composed such profoundly emotive music at just 25 years old. Interestingly, on his deathbed, he reportedly told his daughter‐in‐law, Alice, “It's a funny thing, dying is just as I composed it.'

In contrast, 'Till Eulenspiegel' presents a completely different narrative. This piece depicts the pranks and misadventures of the folk hero Till through lively and mischievous music. It demands the full energy and skill of the entire orchestra, with particular emphasis on the horn section.

Vadim Gluzman, who captivated the Philharmonia audience when he stepped in at short notice to perform Brahms' Violin Concerto in 2022, takes the stage tonight to perform Shostakovich's Second Violin Concerto. Shostakovich composed this piece for his friend David Oistrakh and intricately incorporated twisted fragments of folk melodies and the calls of street vendors from Oistrakh's hometown, Odesa.