Richard Strauss composed Till Eulenspiegels lustige Streiche, Op. 28, in 1894–95. This tone poem depicts the pranks and misadventures of Till Eulenspiegel, a trickster from German folklore. The work follows a rondo-like structure, with a recurring horn theme representing Till’s character. The piece ends with his capture and execution, though his theme reappears briefly at the conclusion.

Strauss’s orchestration includes rapid woodwind passages, bold brass fanfares, and sudden tempo shifts, reflecting Till’s unpredictable nature. The music portrays specific episodes, such as his mockery of authority figures and eventual downfall. The execution is marked by a dramatic silence before a final, subdued conclusion.

The piece is technically demanding, requiring precision and control from the orchestra. Its vivid character and orchestral complexity make it a staple of the symphonic repertoire. Till Eulenspiegel remains one of Strauss’s most frequently performed tone poems.