Strauss & Shostakovich

The Cleveland Orchestra opens its 2026–2027 season with conductor Franz Welser-Möst, who is beginning his 25th and final year in the role. This concert pairs two significant 20th-century compositions: Richard Strauss's Four Last Songs, a set of achingly beautiful pieces the composer created late in life, and Dmitri Shostakovich's Eighth Symphony, a work that journeys from dark emotions toward hope while showcasing the composer's sharp humor and subtle critiques. South African soprano Golda Schultz performs the Strauss selections, bringing her distinctive warmth to these intimate pieces. This is an excellent opportunity for families who enjoy orchestral music to experience masterworks in an acclaimed performance space. Admission ranges from $25 to $75 depending on seating. The concert runs approximately two and a half hours across two performance dates in mid-September. Tickets can be purchased through the Cleveland Orchestra's box office by phone or email. Both works offer something meaningful for listeners—whether you're drawn to the reflective beauty of Strauss or the emotional complexity of Shostakovich.