Shostakovich & Mahler: Tenth Symphonies

Immerse yourself in the powerful and evocative world of symphonic masterpieces with the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra's latest release, "Shostakovich & Mahler: Tenth Symphonies." This exceptional album, released on November 25, 2022, under the prestigious Naxos White label, brings together two monumental works from the classical repertoire, offering a captivating journey through the depths of human emotion and musical expression.

The album opens with Mahler's Symphony No. 10 in F-Sharp Minor, presented in the concert version edited by Willem Mengelberg and Cornelis Dopper. This monumental work, composed during a period of intense personal turmoil for Mahler, is a profound exploration of suffering, redemption, and transcendence. The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra delivers a stirring performance, capturing the symphony's intricate nuances and sweeping grandeur.

Following this, the album presents Shostakovich's Symphony No. 10 in E Minor, Op. 93, a work that stands as a testament to the composer's resilience and artistic genius. Written in the aftermath of Stalin's regime, this symphony is a powerful statement of defiance and a deeply personal expression of Shostakovich's inner turmoil. The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra's interpretation is both nuanced and powerful, bringing out the work's dramatic contrasts and emotional depth.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 21 minutes, this album is a substantial and rewarding listening experience. The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, known for its precision, passion, and artistic excellence, brings these symphonies to life with a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply moving. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to two of the most significant works in the symphonic repertoire.