Inspired by Mozart’s »Gran Partita«, Richard Strauss’ serenade for wind instruments in one movement is from the High Romantic period and was composed when he was 18 years. While Anton Bruckner is celebrated as organ virtuoso, his compositions are hardly known in 1871. In France and England his audiences are enthralled, a confirmation Bruckner, who suffers from constant self-doubt, needs. 

Created in difficult times, Bruckner’s circumstances shape his second symphony: Desperate outbursts follow fervent prayers and helpless silence. His second symphony is also called the symphony of pauses because the music keeps breaking off. Thematic work and superb counterpoints turn the symphony into an impressive oeuvre.

Tonight’s solo piece is the premiere of Mario Venzago’s piano concert. The composer and honorary conductor of Philharmonisches Orchester on his work: »I wanted musicians to be able to play my concert with the techniques needed for Baroque toccata. Scale-like passages and repeating chords characterise the piece consisting of one movement. These parts are followed by aria-like interludes.«