Gustav Mahler
1860 – 1911
Mahler contains multitudes — the whole of human experience in symphonic form. His music moves from folk dance to cosmic philosophy, from bitter irony to transcendent beauty. Mahler understood suffering and transformed it into art.
Essential Listening
Symphony No. 5 - Adagietto
Made famous by 'Death in Venice,' this love letter in music is achingly beautiful — strings and harp creating an atmosphere of pure longing.
Symphony No. 2 'Resurrection' - Finale
The most overwhelming climax in symphonic literature. After wrestling with death, the finale offers resurrection and triumph — utterly cathartic.
Symphony No. 1 - Third Movement
A funeral march based on 'Frère Jacques' — eerie, ironic, and strangely moving. Mahler transforms a children's song into something profound.
Discover Mahler in These Journeys
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