Which is the greater, music or poetry? The arts-loving Countess Madeleine struggles to find the answer " and to choose between her two suitors, the tender composer Flamand and the fiery poet Olivier.
Written at the height of the Second World War, Richard Strausss final opera Capriccio pays tribute to many of the composers operatic predecessors. Notable for its wit and dynamism, highlights include the soulful opening String Sextet and the lyrical closing monologue, in which Countess Madeleine meditates on the inseparability of music and poetry.
World-renowned British conductor and International Festival regular Sir Andrew Davis made his operatic debut with Capriccio. In his 80th birthday year, he returns to this magnificent work with a superb cast led by Malin Bystrm " a much admired Salome at the 2022 Festival " in the lead role as Countess Madeleine.
Capriccio is performed as an opera in concert, with a maximalist approach to vocals, and a minimalist approach to costume and set design. Learn more about operas in concert.
Buy standard price tickets for three or more operas and get 20% off. Excludes concessions and top-price tickets, more details over on Booking Info.
Buy standard price tickets for all three Philharmonia evening concerts at Usher Hall and get 20% off. Excludes concessions and top-price tickets, more details over on Booking Info.
Supported by Pirie Rankin EIF Endowment Fund and Sheila Colvin
With additional support from
Philharmonia Orchestra
Sir Andrew Davis Conductor
Malin Bystrm Countess
Bo Skovhus Count
Sebastian Kohlhepp Flamand
Joshua Hopkins Olivier
Peter Rose La Roche
Dame Sarah Connolly Clairon
Emily Birsan Italian Singer
John Irvin Italian Singer
Reinhard Hagen Major Domo
Strauss Capriccio
