The Parergon on Symphonia Domestica (1924) is something of an oddity on several counts. Aside from the relative scarcity of piano music for the left hand, the work is unusual in that it is both an original composition unto itself and a kind of commentary on another of the composer's works. Strauss composed the Parergon on commission from one-handed Austrian pianist Paul Wittgenstein, who was also the driving force behind such one-handed masterpieces as Ravel's Concerto for the Left Hand (1929 - 31) and Prokofiev's Piano Concerto No. 4 (1931)

Strauss' Symphonia Domestica (1902 - 03) is a musical depiction of activities in and around the composer's household. The Parergon is a kind of sequel to the Sinfonia that employs music from the original in an entirely new context. The "Child" theme from from the Sinfonia Domestica is here presented in a new context of fright and despair, representing the near-fatal illness of Strauss' son Franz. Feverish, swirling harmonies surround the theme, which is continually disturbed by the harsh intrusion of a C sharp from the brass section. Eventually the illness is defeated; the distress transforms into a lovely clarinet theme, perhaps representing the parents' relief. A light scherzando, celebratory and gay, brings the work to its conclusion.

© Blair Johnston, All Music Guide