Richard Strauss, Wiener Philharmoniker, Herbert von Karajan ‎– Also Sprach Zarathustra / Don Juan / Tod Und Verklärung

Richard Strauss – Also sprach Zarathustra / Don Juan / Tod und Verklärung

Performed by the Vienna Philharmonic conducted by Herbert von Karajan

This powerful programme brings together three of Richard Strauss’s most defining tone poems, performed with the unmistakable sonic polish and dramatic intensity of Herbert von Karajan and the Vienna Philharmonic. These works sit at the peak of late-Romantic orchestral writing, showcasing Strauss’s mastery of colour, narrative, and psychological depth.

Don Juan opens the set with exuberant energy and virtuosic brilliance, portraying the legendary libertine in a whirlwind of passion, charm, and ultimately tragic collapse. Its rapid shifts in mood and orchestral brilliance make it one of Strauss’s most electrifying early successes.

Tod und Verklärung (Death and Transfiguration) moves into more philosophical territory, depicting the final moments of an artist’s life and his imagined spiritual transcendence. Beginning in illness and struggle, it builds toward a luminous and expansive conclusion that remains one of Strauss’s most emotionally profound statements.

The suite from Also sprach Zarathustra, inspired by Friedrich Nietzsche, presents a series of contrasting philosophical and musical ideas. From the iconic opening “sunrise” fanfare to sections exploring desire, science, joy, and existential reflection, it traces humanity’s search for meaning through richly orchestrated, cinematic writing.

Karajan’s interpretation emphasises grandeur, control, and sonic depth, while the Vienna Philharmonic delivers a performance of exceptional richness and precision.

Tracklist:

Don Juan, Op. 20

1. Don Juan – 17:07

Tod und Verklärung, Op. 24
2. Death and Transfiguration – 23:55

Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30
3. Introduction – 1:46
4. Von den Hinterweltlern – 3:35
5. Von der großen Sehnsucht – 1:57
6. Von den Freuden und Leidenschaften – 1:54
7. Das Grablied – 2:23
8. Von der Wissenschaft – 4:19
9. Der Genesende – 5:07
10. Das Tanzlied – 7:43
11. Nachtwanderlied – 4:38