Gubaidulina and Strauss

One of the composers who are centre stage this season is Sofia Gubaidulina, an important and multifaceted voice in the world of music. Her Viola Concerto is dedicated to the viola itself, and, according to Gubaidulina herself, the instrument’s mystical and fascinating qualities. Nietzsche, whose novel Also sprach Zarathustra was the inspiration for Richard Strauss’ symphonic poem of the same name, is fascinating in a different way. The music follows themes found in Nietzsche’s book; the contrast between the universe and man, and the meaning of life. The Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra will perform four symphonic poems by Strauss this season – don’t miss the others!