Here we present Scheherazade, symphonic suite, Op. 35, by Russian Romantic composer Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov in this sneak-peak performance prior to his official assumption of his post as chief conductor. Included is a brief interview with the maestro in which he reveals that during the last two-three years, he has come to reflect more and more on the meaning and significance of art and music in today's world. Enjoy the latest collaboration of Maestro Luisi and the NHK Symphony Orchestra from their performance in Okinawa this May.

This piece by Hector Berlioz, Harold en Italie (“Harold in Italy”), symphony, Op. 16, is his symphony with a viola solo. In this performance, the solo is played by Ryo Sasaki, principal violist for the NHK Symphony Orchestra. Berlioz saw great possibilities for individual instruments to express human feelings. He believed that he could create the dramatic operatic atmosphere by composing heart-rendering monologues for instruments without relying on opera singers. Be mesmerized by the drama produced by the no-holds-barred collaboration of Sokhiev, NHK Symphony Orchestra and Ryo Sasaki.

The last in this summer series is the NHK Symphony Orchestra and Sawallisch's 2002 performance of Ein Heldenleben, symphonic poem, Op. 40, by Richard Strauss (“A Hero's Life”). Marvel at Sawallisch's unflagging passion for music as he conducts the orchestra just before his 80th birthday.