International Festival of Orchestras II

With its erotic and revenge-filled plot inspired by the biblical tale of John the Baptist, Strauss’s masterpiece shocked audiences when it was first performed in 1905. Today, the work is a well-established part of the operatic repertoire with the tour-de-force title role requiring the stamina and power of a true dramatic soprano, plus the agility and gracefulness of a prima ballerina to execute the famous “Dance of the Seven Veils” when performed in opera houses. This demanding role is sung by Gun-Brit Barkmin in this marvelous concert version by the Vienna State Opera .