Celebrate 97 Years Since Mahler's Death
discman -- Mon, 05/19/2008 - 11:41
Died May 18, 1911.
What are your favorite Mahler recordings?
For me, 5th, Chailly, Decca is a great one.
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I believe I have recordings of all 9 of his completed symphonies (not sure about the unfinished 10th), as well as Das Leid von der Erde and each has merit (just like ALL of Beethoven's Symphonies). Speakers Corner has Decca reissues of several on vinyl (e.g., Symphonies No. 1, 2, & 3).
Mahler's 8th is an awe-inspiring work. I had the pleasure of singing it with the San Francisco Symphony (as one of the thousand) when Seiji Ozawa conducted so it has a special place in my heart.
The Solti/Chicago 8th on London should be readily available on vinyl (used). If you're lucky, the same recording on Decca is even better sounding.
I have several recordings of the 5th, but I'll have to go through them and let you know what I think is best. I'll see about some of the others, too. Now that I'm using the new Hyperions instead of the original Quads, it's time to fire up the Mahler!
More later,
Jim
I enthusiastically second Jim's suggestion on the Solti Mahler 8th. The middle movements, in particular, are etherial. Do search out and spring for European (Dutch or British) Decca pressings of the recording. The big moments are decidely more clear compared to the domestic Londons. A new Decca 96kHz-24 bit rbCD remastering is nice in a pinch, but it does not have the 'magic' of quality vinyl.
A new favorite of mine of the 6th on SACD is the Eschenbach/Philadelphia Orchestra effort on Ondine. Eschenbach's interpretation is beautifully paced and avoids the loss of momentum that can plague lesser efforts with this monster. The sonics very faithfully suggest the sound of the fabulous Philadelphians in their home, Verizon Hall.
Finally, a durable and superior old favorite is Bruno Walter's 1st with the Columbia Symphony. The Columbia "360" LP recording from the 60s sound much better than one might have any right to expect and even the rbCD incarnations are enjoyable.
Unfortunately, I don't have the Walter recording of the 1st. Bob, you are right about some of those Columbia (six eye) gems, which can combine great performances with great/very good sonics. I'm also discovering some of the monos that are terrific.
I can recommend the Speakers Corner Decca reissue with Solti (again).
Jim