Mahler: Rückert Lieder; Kindertotenlieder; Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen; Des Knaben Wunderhorn

Album Description

Gustav Mahler's "Mahler: Rückert Lieder; Kindertotenlieder; Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen; Des Knaben Wunderhorn" is a profound exploration of the human condition, beautifully captured in a single, captivating collection. Released in 1994 under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, this album spans a rich tapestry of Mahler's orchestral and vocal works, each piece a testament to his unparalleled compositional genius.

The album opens with the Rückert-Lieder, a series of songs based on poems by Friedrich Rückert, showcasing Mahler's deep sensitivity and poetic insight. These pieces, performed with exquisite delicacy, highlight the composer's ability to translate complex emotions into music.

Following this, the Kindertotenlieder offers a poignant reflection on loss and remembrance, with Mahler's haunting melodies and profound orchestration bringing a sense of both sorrow and solace. The Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen, inspired by Mahler's own experiences, provides a raw and intimate look into the composer's personal struggles and triumphs.

The album concludes with selections from "Des Knaben Wunderhorn," a collection of folk poems that Mahler set to music. These pieces, filled with whimsy and wonder, offer a delightful contrast to the more introspective works that precede them.

Conducted by Gary Bertini and performed by the Cologne Radio Symphony Orchestra, this recording is a masterclass in orchestral and vocal precision. The album's duration of one hour and nine minutes ensures a comprehensive and immersive experience, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.

January 3, 1994

℗ 1994 Decca Music Group Limited

About Gustav Mahler

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.