If ever there was a classical concerto that can be likened to a marathon run, then hands down it would have to be Richard Strauss’ Oboe Concerto in D major. The task of performing this breathtakingly beautiful piece falls on Katherine Needleman, principal oboist for the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.

Under the baton of guest conductor Christopher Konig, who makes his debut with the BSO on Saturday night at Strathmore, the orchestra also presents Debussy’s Petite Suite and Beethoven’s monumental Symphony No. 7.