Klaus Tennstedt, the conductor on this recording, was renowned for his performances of German repertoire, especially Mahler, and maintained that Symphony No. 2 was the first expression of Mahler's true self.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The narrative of Mahler's Symphony No. 2 explores themes of mortality, the fear of death, and faith in resurrection, partly inspired by Friedrich Klopstock's 'Resurrection Ode'.
Recording & Production
This recording was made live at the Royal Festival Hall in London in February 1989 by the Music Performance Research Centre (now Music Preserved), an organization that archives live performances.
Compositional Technique
The 'Resurrection' Symphony is a large-scale work, lasting 90 minutes with five movements, two soloists, a large chorus, and an orchestra including ten horns and eight trumpets.
Recording & Production
The Music Performance Research Centre was established to overcome complex copyright issues that previously prevented official archival recordings of live concert hall performances.
Composition History
Mahler's Symphony No. 2, known as the 'Resurrection' Symphony, took five years to conceive and complete.
Performer Biography
Jard van Nes, the mezzo-soprano on this recording, gained a special reputation for her performances of Mahler's music, including his orchestral song cycles and symphonies.
