Cellist takes a bow as Don Quixote

The orchestral tone poem — in which the resources of a symphony orchestra are deployed to illuminate a work of literature or even philosophy — was an idea that hatched in Liszt’s fertile brain and came to full flower at the end of the 19th century with a series of evocative masterpieces by Strauss. (That’s the simplified version.)

One of Strauss’ most overtly narrative creations from this period was “Don Quixote,” which forms the centerpiece of the upcoming concert program by the Marin Symphony under Music Director Alasdair Neale. In adapting Cervantes’ novel for the orchestra, Strauss gave the title role to a solo cello — on this occasion the suave virtuoso Zuill Bailey — with a side assignment for a solo viola as the trusty Sancho Panza.

Along with “Don Quixote,” Neale will lead the orchestra in Strauss’ “Serenade for Winds” and two pieces by Stravinsky.

Marin Symphony: 3 p.m. Sunday, April 29; 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 1. $45-$85. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. (415) 479-8100. www.marinsymphony.org

Courtesy Zuill Bailey Cellist Zuill Bailey has the title role in Marin Symphony’s “Don Quixote.”