Mahler: Das klagende Lied / Berg: Lulu-Suite

Experience the captivating power of Mahler's "Das klagende Lied" and Berg's "Lulu-Suite" in this stunning live recording from the 2011 Salzburg Festival, conducted by the legendary Pierre Boulez. Soprano Dorothea Röschmann leads an exceptional ensemble, including the Vienna Philharmonic, Anna Larsson, Johan Botha, and the Chorus of the Vienna State Opera, in a performance that showcases the dramatic intensity and rich orchestration of these seminal works.

Gustav Mahler's "Das klagende Lied" is a rare and monumental piece, originally conceived as a stage work but later transformed into a cantata for orchestra and soloists. This recording features the two-movement version, arranged by Mahler himself, offering a unique perspective on his early compositional style and his engagement with Wagner's theatrical legacy. The work's lush harmonies, vivid orchestration, and evocative storytelling make it a highlight of the Mahler repertoire.

Alban Berg's "Lulu-Suite" is a symphonic distillation of his unfinished opera "Lulu," drawing on the opera's vivid orchestration and complex harmonies to create a powerful and expressive concert work. The suite's five movements offer a compelling journey through Berg's distinctive musical language, from the lively "Rondo" to the haunting "Adagio."

This live recording captures the energy and excitement of the Salzburg Festival, with the Vienna Philharmonic delivering a performance of breathtaking virtuosity and precision. Dorothea Röschmann's soaring soprano is perfectly suited to the demands of both Mahler and Berg, while the chorus and soloists deliver powerful and nuanced performances throughout. The album's release coincides with the 88th birthday of Pierre Boulez, a fitting tribute to one of the most influential conductors of the 20th and 21st centuries.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience, showcasing the dramatic power and musical innovation of two of the most important composers of the late Romantic and early modern eras. Whether you're a longtime fan of Mahler and Berg or a newcomer to their music, this live recording is sure to captivate and inspire.