The tonal language of the young Richard Strauss was wholly influenced by 19th-century tradition. Logically, it was the examination of the examples of Schubert, Mendelssohn and Schumann which characterized the musical events in the composer's early piano music. Schott Music is currently publishing several volumes with hitherto unpublished piano pieces by Strauss, including two works from his middle creative period the existence of which was been unknown until recently: 'Impromptu and Marsch der Königin Luise'. Also new from Schott Music: 'Intermezzo' for piano duet, composed by Strauss at the age of 21 in the spirit of Romantic tradition. The autograph was privately owned in Italy and has not appeared in public until now. The elegant and witty piece is a great addition to the repertoire.