Arnold Schönberg, the founder of the Second Viennese School, a pioneer of dodecaphony, is considered one of the most outstanding composers of the early 20th century. His music was shaped by late German romanticism, and his works are characterised by emotional expressiveness and rational constructiveness.

The works of his first period (1897–1907) are tonal, influenced by Wagner, Mahler and Strauss, with a polyphonic texture, colourful instrumentation, and intensive expressionistic moods. The most significant work of this period is the string sextet Verklärte Nacht (Transfigured Night, 1899). In 1917, the composer made its version for string orchestra. The music for this programmatic work was inspired by the German expressionist poet Richard Dehmel’s text from his poetic collection Weib und Welt (Woman and World), which tells the story of two people who, while walking in the night, are dealing with their personal problems and relationships. Their intimate and frank conversation changes and strengthens their relationship and brightens their souls. “This is a kind of psychotherapy course”, said Maestro Modestas Pitrėnas before the performance.

The emotional garland of feelings of Schönberg’s opus is conveyed by the string section of the Lithuanian National Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Pitrėnas.