Mahler & Strauss

Immerse yourself in the profound and powerful world of Gustav Mahler and Richard Strauss, as interpreted by the legendary conductor Otto Klemperer. This meticulously curated collection, released on January 10, 2024, by Warner Classics, offers a comprehensive exploration of these two titans of classical music. Spanning nearly five hours, this album is a testament to Klemperer's unparalleled mastery and deep understanding of these composers' works.

The album opens with Mahler's monumental Symphony No. 2 in C Minor, "Resurrection," a work that explores themes of life, death, and redemption. Klemperer's interpretation is renowned for its stark intensity and unyielding honesty, making it a standout performance in his discography. The symphony is followed by Mahler's "Das Lied von der Erde," a deeply personal and evocative song cycle that reflects on the human condition.

The second half of the album is dedicated to the works of Richard Strauss, including his tone poem "Don Juan," the sensuous "Dance of the Seven Veils" from "Salomé," and the philosophical "Tod und Verklärung." These works showcase Strauss's innovative use of orchestration and his ability to convey complex psychological states.

The album also includes performances of Mahler's Symphony No. 4 in G Major and Strauss's "Metamorphosen," a late work that reflects on the transience of life and the enduring power of art. Throughout the album, Klemperer is joined by an impressive ensemble of soloists, including Hilde Rössel-Majdan, Elisabeth Schwarzkopf, Fritz Wunderlich, and Christa Ludwig, as well as the Philharmonia Orchestra and Philharmonia Chorus.

Recorded in high-resolution audio formats, including MQA and 24-bit/96kHz, this album offers an immersive listening experience that captures every nuance of Klemperer's conducting and the orchestra's playing. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a compelling introduction to the works of Mahler and Strauss, as interpreted by one of the 20th century's most influential conductors.

Otto Klemperer, born in 1885, was a titan of conducting, renowned for his profound interpretations of classical music. A protégé of Gustav Mahler, Klemperer's career spanned multiple continents, from his early days in Germany to his influential work in the United States, Hungary, and ultimately, Great Britain. He is celebrated for his modernist approach to opera and classical music, particularly his recordings of Beethoven, Bruckner, and Mahler. Klemperer's legacy is marked by his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to reveal the inner workings of a composer's vision, making each performance a deeply personal and transformative experience. Beyond his conducting, Klemperer also composed operas and symphonies, leaving an indelible mark on the world of classical music. Despite facing personal struggles, including mental health challenges and anti-Semitism, Klemperer's dedication to his craft remained unwavering, earning him a place among the greatest conductors of the 20th century.