Otto Klemperer conducts the Phillharmonia Orchestra and Chorus performing Mahler’s Symphony No.2 “Resurrection” (180g 2LP)

Label: The Electric Recording Company   ERC 071/72 / Stereo 180g 2 LP

Klemperer’s interpretation is a landmark in the history of Mahler performance. The epic Symphony No. 2 brought Gustav Mahler and Otto Klemperer together in 1905, while the 20-year-old Klemperer conducting the off-stage brass for a performance of Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, Resurrection in Berlin. Mahler, impressed, subsequently recommended him for appointments in Prague and Hamburg.

In this recording Klemperer rewards the composer’s faith with an interpretation of granite-like strength, drawing magnificent performances from orchestra, chorus and soloists.

The combined genius of Otto Klemperer conducting Gustav Mahler‘s Symphony No.2 in C Minor is a breathtaking example of transcendence. Also known as the Resurrection Symphony, it is widely considered to be one of the greatest symphonies of all time. Written by Gustav Mahler between 1888 and 1894, it was first performed in 1895 and became one of Mahler‘s most successful works. Exploring views of afterlife and resurrection, Mahler passionately invites the listener to follow as he dives into another world. Otto Klemperer first met Mahler while conducting the offstage brass at a performance of Resurrection in 1905. They became friends and on Mahler’s recommendation Klemperer became conductor at the German Opera in Prague in 1907. Though Mahler‘s friendship certainly influenced Klemperer‘s career, it can not undermine the exceptional brilliance of Klemperer in his own right.

In this union of phenomenal talent, The Resurrection Symphony delivers a truly electrifying listening experience.