Featuring Strauss’ epic tone poem, heroic in scale and spirit, and inspired by the composer’s own adventures to depict “the inward battle of life.” Strauss immortalises the epic struggle between private inner life and the tumultuous outer world, battling for understanding and recognition. Strauss once said, “I don’t see why I should not compose a symphony about myself; I find myself quite as interesting as Napoleon or Alexander.” John Harding, WASO’s Concertmaster will feature as solo violinist in this grand and monumental work.

Another highlight of the evening’s concert will be Wagner’s Wesendonck Lieder featuring one of Australia’s leading soprano’s Nicole Youl. Nicole has won both the Metropolitan Opera Awards in 1995 and the Rome Opera Award in 1996. She also won the Australian Singing Competition’s Opera Awards in 2002. This expressive song cycle speaks of love, beauty and tenderness, and will touch the heart of every romantic spirit.

In the hands of Tadaaki Otaka, master conductor, the result will be as opulent as it is compelling – a truly grand concert.

Tadaaki Otaka is one of Japan’s leading conductors and is Conductor Laureate of the BBC Orchestra in Wales. His wide-ranging activities include concert, opera, radio and television and also premieres of works by distinguished composer Toru Takemitsu. -- www.waso.com.au