Strauss, Richard: Suite for 13 Wind Instruments, op.4

The Serenade in B flat major, op. 4 by Richard Strauss is a remarkable work for 13 wind instruments that the composer wrote in his early years. It was composed in 1884, when Strauss was still a young, aspiring musician. The work was commissioned by Hans von Bülow, who recognized Strauss' talent early on.

The Serenade is characterized by its light, Mozartian character, combined with a symphonic sound. It consists of four movements: Prelude, Romance, Gavotte and a concluding Introduction with Fugue. The fugue is particularly noteworthy, demonstrating Strauss’s mastery of counterpoint and his ability to integrate ironic and playful elements.

This work marks an important point in Strauss' career, as it initiated his collaboration with Hans von Bülow and the recognition of his compositions outside of Munich.