Mahler: Das Lied von der Erde, Busoni: Berceuse élégiaque

Immerse yourself in the profound and evocative compositions of Gustav Mahler with this captivating album, released on RCA Red Seal. This recording features Mahler's monumental work "Das Lied von der Erde" (The Song of the Earth), a symphonic masterpiece that blends vocal and orchestral elements to explore themes of life, nature, and transience. The album spans approximately 73 minutes, offering a rich and immersive experience for classical music enthusiasts.

"Das Lied von der Erde" is a poignant and deeply personal work by Mahler, composed in 1908. It is scored for a large orchestra and two vocal soloists, a tenor and a mezzo-soprano, who take on the roles of the "Drinking Song of Earth's Sorrow," "The Solitary in Autumn," "Of Youth," "Of Beauty," "The Drunken Man in Spring," and "The Farewell." The work is a profound exploration of life's joys and sorrows, set to a series of poems adapted from ancient Chinese texts.

Complementing Mahler's masterpiece is Ferruccio Busoni's "Berceuse élégiaque, Op. 42," a purely orchestral piece that adds a touch of elegance and refinement to the album. This work, composed in 1909, is a beautiful and serene interlude that showcases the orchestral prowess and sensitivity of the performers.

The album features the stunning performances of mezzo-soprano Susan Graham and tenor Christian Elsner, accompanied by the Tonhalle-Orchester Zurich under the baton of David Zinman. Their interpretations bring depth and nuance to Mahler's complex score, making this recording a standout in the repertoire of classical music.

Whether you are a seasoned classical music aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling journey through the rich and varied landscapes of Mahler's and Busoni's compositions. The blend of vocal and orchestral elements, along with the poetic and philosophical depth of the texts, creates a timeless and resonant experience.

Gustav Mahler, born in 1860 in Bohemia, was a towering figure in the world of classical music, straddling the late Romantic and early modernist eras. A prolific composer and renowned conductor, Mahler's symphonies are celebrated for their grandeur and emotional depth, often requiring large orchestras to bring his vision to life. His journey to fame was not without obstacles; despite his conducting prowess being recognized in his lifetime, his compositions faced periods of neglect, including a ban during the Nazi era. However, post-World War II, Mahler's music experienced a resurgence, becoming a staple in concert halls and recordings worldwide. His monumental works, such as the 'Titan' symphony, continue to captivate audiences with their intricate structures and profound expressions of human experience. Mahler's legacy endures, making him one of the most performed and recorded composers of all time.