This CD is based on Mahler's twelve-song series from 1892-98, but also includes 'Urlicht' and 'Das himmlische Leben' from his Wunderhorn symphonies, and the symphonic 'Blumine' movement as an entr'acte.
Performer Biography
The SWR Sinfonieorchester Baden-Baden und Freiburg, featured on this recording, has premiered nearly 400 pieces of new music since 1950.
Historical Context
Des Knaben Wunderhorn, an anthology of 'old German songs' by Achim von Arnim and Clemens Brentano, was a literary affirmation of the 'national idea' that flourished during Napoleon's rule.
Composition History
Gustav Mahler's song compositions primarily drew from two poetic sources: the verses of Friedrich Rückert, a professor of Middle Eastern studies and poet, and the anthology Des Knaben Wunderhorn by Achim von Arnim and Clemens Brentano.
Performer Biography
Michael Gielen, the conductor on this album, was awarded the 'Ernst von Siemens Music Prize' in 2010.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Mahler found in Des Knaben Wunderhorn all basic human feelings for setting to music, including love, sorrow, longing, joy, and horror, which he set in a 'folk tone' that was both popular and complex.
Compositional Technique
Mahler was particularly interested in songs about soldiers, possibly due to the proximity of an imperial garrison near his hometown of Iglau, which influenced the military signals and marches in his symphonies.
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