Richard Strauss’ symphonic tone poem “Tod und Verklärung” (Death and Transfiguration) is reborn in chamber music form in this new ensemble1232 program for piano and strings. Powerful sonorities of full brass and wind sections, along with the simultaneously sharp and ethereal texturing of strings, are all presented in chamber music form with a unique combination of instruments: piano, violin, viola, and two cellos. This combination of “cello quartet” à la Arensky, with the traditional piano quartet, offers a bold interpretation of the chamber music soundscape, perfect for a re-interpretation of Strauss’ hallmark of lush, rich textures.
