Andantino

»Capriccio« is Richard Strauss’ last work for the stage. Premiered in October 1942, the opera seemed a little out of touch with its time. The events take place in the happy world of the 18th century and the opera focuses on juxtaposing word and sound in a scholarly and courteous way, giving centre stage to the love of two young artists for a countess – all of that suggests »l’art pour l’art«, beauty for beauty’s sake. The opera starts with a sextet as its overture. Using the means of the late 19th century to describe the times of the late 18th century, the opera is staged for the first time in the mid-20th century.

Schubert’s violin sonata in A-major was published posthumous in 1851 and probably played at a so-called Schubertiade, referring to a happy evening full of music and entertainment the artist would spend with his friends. Its characteristic lyrics and rich palette reflect Schubert’s growing technical confidence in this genre.

The String Quintet KV 516, the dark counterpart to the magnificently radiant C major quintet, leads into the G minor region that was particularly close to Mozart's heart. No wonder that this work is one of his most impressive chamber music creations – and is still considered one of the most profound and moving pieces in the entire chamber music literature.