Richard Strauss's suite in B-flat major, op. 4 : a conductor's analysis and suggestions for performance

Abstract

Richard Strauss's Suite in B-flat, Op.4 is one of the most significant works in the literature for winds in the late nineteenth century as it is a composition for winds with a late Romantic idiom and also demonstrates early Strauss's compositional technique which will later develop into his mature symphonic works. The author chose this piece as a part of his graduate recital because of its suitability for performance by both students and professional ensembles. Although this piece has been studied by a number of researchers, the research regarding the specific issue of rehearsing and conducting the piece is quite limited, thus leading the author to realize that it deserves broader attention. The present study served as a resource for conductors as well as performers who are interested and intend to perform Strauss's Suite in B-flat, Op.4. Therefore, the piece was thoroughly studied in this thematic paper with respects to Strauss's biography, historical background of the piece, analysis of the piece, and rehearsal plan/performance suggestions.