Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra / Mariss Jansons

Mariss Jansons and the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra perform Strauss' Don Quixote starring Yo-Yo Ma and Dvorak's Symphony No. 8.

With its ten variations on a theme of knightly character, Richard Strauss’ tone poem “Don Quixote” not only depicts the adventures of Cervantes’ chivalrous hero, but also functions as a virtuoso display of glorious solo melodies embedded in stunning orchestral passages. In this performance, Yo-Yo Ma takes on the part of “Don Quixote”. From the moment he walks onto the stage, he exudes charisma that immediately confirms his truly exceptional status as one of the best cellists in the world. Joining “the Don” later is a viola solo that personifies the faithful Sancho Panza, played by Wen Xiao Zheng.

Given its first performance in Prague in 1890, Antonin Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8 sparkles with exuberance and lightness. The music of the Bohemian composer immediately takes command of the stage, with its wealth of melodies enthralling fans of symphonic music for many years now. It is the moment of the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, which was chosen by internationally renowned music critics as one of “the world’s greatest orchestras.” And it is the moment of triumph of the great conductor Mariss Jansons.

English title Mariss Jansons conducts Strauss Don Quixote and Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8
Recording location Philharmonie im Gasteig, Munich
Production year 2016