Anybody here listen to Mahler?


I have always been a fan of classical music but I never really understood or got into Gustav Mahler music. Over the holidays I’ve been listening to the Leonard Bernstein conducted symphonies and I have to say I am pretty blown away and  Mahler seems like bridge from the Germanic classical music to modern classical music. I am especially smitten by the second symphony also known as the resurrection. Any thoughts on Mahler symphonies that you really like and why would be appreciated. Mahler seems very influential on present composers. . I am especially smitten by the second symphony also known as the resurrection. Any thoughts on Mahler symphonies that you really like and why would be appreciated. Boy does his music work out your hi-fi and especially your speakers

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Showing 1 response by edcyn

Mahler is my favorite musical artist in any genre. Tunes! Emotions!

If you can tolerate classical vocals, try "Des Knaben Wunderhorn" recorded by soprano Maureen Forrester, bass Heinz Rehfuss and the Vienna Symphony conducted by Felix Prohaska. It'll instantly take you back in time to fantasy Medieval days. Solid sound quality, too.

Mahler's First Symphony inhabits the same magical place. Try Bruno Walter's old recording, in pretty good sound, as well.

The Fourth Symphony is gentle, easy and, again, filled with fine tunes. The final movement is the proverbial child's vision of heaven.

Mahler's Seventh Symphony can get more than a little long in the tooth but the final movement is glorious & friendly.

In any event, Mahler creates complete musical worlds, worlds you find yourself wandering around in.