Inside the Mind of a Maestro

THE PRINCIPAL CONDUCTOR OF THE STAATSKAPELLE DRESDEN, Christian Thielemann, ON THE CHALLENGES AND JOYS OF LEADING ONE OF THE WORLD’S OLDEST ORCHESTRAS

Composer richard strauss once described it as “the best orchestra in the world” and, almost 500 years after its founding, the Staatskapelle Dresden is still seducing classical music aficionados around the globe. Its former music directors include Richard Wagner and Carl Maria von Weber, and dozens of other illustrious musical names have played a part in its evolution. Strauss himself worked intimately with the orchestra for more than 60 years, even dedicating one of his symphonies to the German ensemble. The man now in possession of the magic baton is Christian Thielemann, who touches down later this month for the Hong Kong Arts Festival. Over two days, he and his extraordinary troupe of musicians will bring to life a programme that includes Bruckner’s Ninthsymphony, Strauss’ impassioned reflection on war’s destruction, Metamorphosen, Liszt’s Orpheus and Wagner’s tranquil Siegfriedidyll. The programme will culminate with Strauss’ flamboyant musical self-portrait and celebrated orchestral showpiece, Einheldenleben.

The Staatskapelle Dresden will perform at the Cultural Centre on February 27 and 28