Composer

:

Richard Strauss

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Sinfonia

Compose Date

:

1925

Average_duration

:

22:21

Richard Strauss composed "Parergon zur Sinfonia Domestica, Op. 73" in 1925. The piece was premiered on November 15, 1925, in Frankfurt, Germany, with the composer conducting the Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra. The work is a set of five variations on themes from Strauss's earlier work, "Sinfonia Domestica." The title "Parergon" means "something added" or "supplement," and the piece serves as a kind of appendix to the original symphony. The first movement, "Introduction," begins with a slow, mysterious theme played by the cellos and basses. This theme is then developed and expanded upon by the rest of the orchestra, leading to a climax before transitioning into the second movement. The second movement, "Schottische," is a lively dance in 2/4 time. The theme is based on a Scottish folk tune, and Strauss uses it to showcase the orchestra's virtuosity and rhythmic precision. The third movement, "Waltz," is a graceful and elegant dance in 3/4 time. The theme is based on a waltz from "Sinfonia Domestica," but Strauss adds new harmonies and orchestrations to give it a fresh sound. The fourth movement, "Polka," is a fast and playful dance in 2/4 time. The theme is based on a polka from "Sinfonia Domestica," but again, Strauss adds new harmonies and orchestrations to keep it interesting. The final movement, "Fugue," is a complex and intricate piece that showcases Strauss's skill as a composer. The theme is based on a fugue from "Sinfonia Domestica," but Strauss expands upon it and adds new counterpoint to create a thrilling conclusion to the piece. Overall, "Parergon zur Sinfonia Domestica, Op. 73" is a masterful work that showcases Strauss's skill as a composer and orchestrator. The piece is full of energy, wit, and charm, and it serves as a fitting supplement to one of Strauss's most beloved works.

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