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Mahler: Symphony No. 2 Resurrection by Otto Klemperer (2024 Remastered, London 1962)

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Mahler: Symphony No. 2 Resurrection

Otto Klemperer (2024 Remastered, London 1962)

1 disc(s) - 5 track(s)
Total length: 01:19:26

 

We stand beside the coffin of a beloved person. Their entire life, their struggles, passions, sufferings, and accomplishments on earth pass before us one last time. And now, in this solemn and profoundly moving moment, when the confusions and distractions of daily life are lifted like a veil from our eyes, a voice of impressive solemnity chills our hearts—a voice we usually ignore, blinded by the mirage of everyday life: And then? What is life and what is death? Why did you suffer? Why did you live?

This was the introductory program by Mahler for his 'Resurrection' Symphony, which he began composing in 1888, starting with a symphonic poem titled "Todtenfeier" (Funeral Rites), in which the hero of his First Symphony is buried.

Mahler's "Resurrection" Symphony played a crucial role in launching Otto Klemperer's career. The young pianist made a piano reduction of the Symphony and, a month later, during a visit to Vienna in 1907, had the opportunity to play the Scherzo for Mahler. The composer was touched and impressed. Klemperer had played from memory.

Why, Mahler asked him, did he want to become a conductor when he clearly had a promising future as a pianist? Klemperer replied that it was his "unwavering ambition" to conduct, and Mahler sent him to see the director of the Volksoper.

When Klemperer returned empty-handed, Mahler took a business card from his pocket and wrote on it:

"Gustav Mahler recommends Herr Klemperer as an exceptional musician, who despite his young age is already very experienced and destined for a career as a conductor. He guarantees the successful completion of the trial period and would be happy to provide personal references."

Klemperer kept a copy of the card in his wallet until the day he died. "It opened all doors for me," he said. "Mahler was, indeed, my 'Creator Spiritus.'"

Enjoy your listening

Track listing

1. Symphony No. 2 Resurrection IMG 8: I. Allegro maestoso (2024 Remastered, London 1962)
2. Symphony No. 2 Resurrection IMG 8: II. Andante moderato (2024 Remastered, London 1962)
3. Symphony No. 2 Resurrection IMG 8: III. In ruhig fliessender Bewegung (2024 Remastered, London 1962)
4. Symphony No. 2 Resurrection IMG 8: IV. Urlicht (2024 Remastered, London 1962)
5. Symphony No. 2 Resurrection IMG 8: V. In Tempo des Scherzos, Kräftig, Langsam Misterioso (2024 Remastered, London 1962)

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