“Our future lies in art, especially in music. In times when spiritual goods are rarer than material ones, and egotism, envy and hatred govern the world, music will do much to re-establish love among mankind.”

– Richard Strauss

This is the last music Strauss ever conducted, as part of his 85th birthday celebration. He also stipulated that the music be performed at his funeral. On that occasion, a 36 year-old Georg Solti conducted, and the three singers, in turn, broke down, overcome by emotion. Its message is, simultaneously, one of valediction and renewal. In a performance like this is, it can be almost unbearably poignant.