The first movement of Mahler's Second Symphony, originally titled 'Todtenfeier' (Funeral Rites), stood alone for several years before the rest of the symphony was conceived.
Recording & Production
This recording of Mahler's Symphony No. 2 'Resurrection' was made at Watford Colosseum, London, UK, from January 6-8, 2012.
Composition History
Mahler began his Second Symphony at age twenty-seven, but its gestation period was longer than any of his other works.
Performer Biography
Conductor Benjamin Zander began studying music at a very early age, composing at nine and studying under Benjamin Britten and Imogen Holst by age twelve.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Mahler specifically instructed that the singer of the 'Urlicht' movement should use 'the tone and vocal expression of a child who thinks he is in heaven.'
Composition History
The inspiration for the finale of Mahler's Second Symphony came to him at a memorial service for conductor Hans von Bülow, where he heard a chorale setting of Friedrich Klopstock's hymn 'Auferstehung' (Resurrection).
Critical Reception
The premiere of Mahler's Second Symphony saw audience members sobbing and embracing, but critics were harsh, calling it 'noise,' 'bombast,' and 'cacophony.'
