Mahler & Strauss

Immerse yourself in the masterful interpretations of Otto Klemperer with this comprehensive collection of works by Gustav Mahler and Richard Strauss. Released on January 10, 2024, by Warner Classics, this album spans nearly five hours of captivating classical music, featuring some of the most iconic compositions in the genre.

The album opens with Mahler's monumental Symphony No. 2 in C Minor "Resurrection," a powerful and deeply expressive work that showcases Klemperer's ability to convey both the grandeur and intimacy of Mahler's score. The symphony's five movements, including the famous "Urlicht" and the triumphant finale, are performed with a sense of urgency and reverence that only Klemperer can bring.

Following the symphony, the album presents Mahler's "Das Lied von der Erde," a song cycle that blends the traditions of German Lieder and Chinese poetry. Klemperer's sensitive and nuanced interpretation highlights the work's delicate balance of melancholy and beauty.

The second half of the album is dedicated to the works of Richard Strauss, including the dramatic tone poem "Don Juan," the sensual "Dance of the Seven Veils" from "Salome," and the whimsical "Till Eulenspiegels lustige Streiche." Klemperer's conducting brings out the full range of Strauss's orchestral colors and textures, from the bold and brash to the subtle and refined.

The album concludes with Mahler's Symphony No. 4 in G Major, a work that contrasts the innocence of childhood with the complexities of adulthood. Klemperer's performance captures the symphony's unique blend of nostalgia and optimism, making it a fitting conclusion to this extraordinary collection.

With a total duration of 4 hours and 51 minutes, this album is a testament to Otto Klemperer's enduring legacy as one of the greatest conductors of the 20th century. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.