Capriccio is somewhat unique in the opera repertoire. this ''conversation piece for music in one act'' was written in 1942 during Strauss' later years and concerns an intellectual discussion at a soiree about whether words or music are the most important in opera, thus an opera itself. Strauss himself feared that the public at large would not know how to take this ''treat for cultural connoisseurs'' - but he was wrong. His theatrical ''thatrical fugue'' was to become one of the most frequently performed of his late works. This production provides a wonderful showcase for the inimitable Kiri Te Kanawa, a Strauss specialist, who sparkles her way through the role of the humoured and charming contess torn between two suitors.