Immerse yourself in the profound and enchanting world of Gustav Mahler with this captivating album, released on March 1, 1999, under the Warner Classics label. This collection showcases Mahler's extraordinary compositional prowess, featuring his Symphony No. 4 in G Major and a selection of his most beloved Lieder, including pieces from Rückert-Lieder and Des Knaben Wunderhorn.
The album opens with the Symphony No. 4, a work that is both lyrical and profound, blending orchestral grandeur with intimate, almost chamber-like moments. The four movements of the symphony are performed with meticulous attention to detail, revealing Mahler's unique ability to weave together diverse musical elements into a cohesive and deeply moving whole.
Following the symphony, the album presents a selection of Mahler's vocal works, showcasing the composer's gift for setting poetry to music. The Rückert-Lieder, inspired by the poems of Friedrich Rückert, are notable for their expressive depth and emotional resonance. Similarly, the selections from Des Knaben Wunderhorn draw on traditional German folk poetry, offering a glimpse into Mahler's early compositional style.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 19 minutes, this album is a testament to Mahler's enduring influence on the world of classical music. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Mahler's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.