Gustav Mahler's Symphonies

Critical Commentary on Recordings Since 1986

Lewis M. Smoley

• Publisher: Greenwood
• Year: 1996
• Print ISBN:
  9780313297717
• eBook ISBN:
  9780313370038
• Edition: 1
• Topic: Media & Performing Arts
• Subtopic: Classical Music

The popularity of Mahler's symphonic works is unremitting. More recordings have been made during the past ten years than in the previous six decades. This work is a companion to the first volume, published in 1986; together, the two review virtually every recording commercially released (as well as some private issues). The intention of both works is to provide a comprehensive analysis of all recordings. A general overview is combined with details of particular importance. Recordings of special merit are noted. The objective critical discussions will appeal to the newcomer as well as the knowledgeable devotee and the work will serve as a valuable addition to university, music school, and public libraries, as well as any music lover's library.

This guide provides a symphony-by-symphony commentary, including the unfinished Tenth Symphony, Das Lied von der Erde, and piano and chamber music reductions of the works. It includes all new recordings issued worldwide as well as compact disc reissues of previously released recordings and all performances on videocassette. Listings are arranged alphabetically by conductor, and headings for each recording contain specific information about the performers, record label, catalog number, and timing. Helpful indexes by conductor, orchestra, vocal and instrumental soloists, chorus, and record label are included.

Table of contents

• Contents
• Introduction
• Symphony No.1 in D Major (“Titan”)
• Symphony No.2 in C Minor (“Resurrection”)
• Symphony No.3 in D Minor
• Symphony No.4 in G Major
• Symphony No.5 in C-sharp Minor
• Symphony No.6 in A Minor (“Tragic”)
• Symphony No.7 in E Minor (“Song of the Night”)
• Symphony No.8 in E-flat Major (“Symphony of a Thousand”)
• Das Lied von der Erde
• Symphony No.9 in D Major
• Symphony No.10 in F-sharp Major (Unfinished)
• Bibliography
• Index to Conductors
• Index to Orchestras
• Index to Soloists
• Index to Choruses
• Index to Record Labels