Marin Alsop, conductor

R.Strauss: Ein Heldenleben

If musicians have a favorite orchestra showpiece, this just might be it. Richard Strauss’ tone poem Ein Heldenleben (A Hero’s Life) is a masterpiece for the ages. Who is the hero portrayed in this stunning work? What journey must he overcome? It might take some serious brass to create the sounds of battle, bravery and heroism, but Strauss’ score exploits the full instrumental range of the BSO in one epic punch.