The Richard Strauss “Oboe Concerto” is one of the most important works ever written for the instrument, serving as a cornerstone of the solo repertoire. At the advanced age of 81, Strauss produced a masterpiece of exquisite lyricism. Yet this monumental work might never have existed, save for a chance encounter that altered the course of history.
This is the story of how an innocent question posed by a young American oboist resulted in a most unlikely and beautiful piece of music.
