TWO SPHERES OF MAHLER’S WORKS
Catch the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra in two performances this weekend, writes Dennis Chua
THE Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra will showcase the works of classical composer Gustav Mahler at 8.30pm tomorrow and 3pm on Sunday at Dewan Filharmonik Petronas, KLCC, Jalan Ampang.
The MPO will present two spheres of Mahler’s works: His huge, heaven-storming symphonic frescos and exquisite, intimate and deeply personal songs.
Songs from Des Knaben Wunderhorn (The Youth’s Magic Horn) were written between 1888 and 1901. Performing this song selection with the MPO is Matthias Goerne, a sought-after vocalist.
He has appeared on the world’s prominent opera stages including the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Teatro Real in Madrid, Paris National Opera and Vienna State Opera.
His artistry has been documented on numerous recordings and he has received prestigious awards including the Grammy, ICMA and Diapason d’or arte awards.
The MPO will next perform Mahler’s Symphony No.1 In D Major. Nicknamed Titan after a novel by Jean Paul, Mahler led its premiere in Budapest in 1889.
Among the innovations one can point to in this work are the largest assemblage of orchestral musicians hitherto required in a symphony, and the incorporation of cafe, pop and gypsy music. The concerts will be led by French conductor Guillaume Tourniaire who has appeared with orchestras in Rome, France, Lisbon, Germany, Seoul and Poland.
He has led the production of Prokofiev’s opera Betrothal In A Monastery, Stravinsky’s ballet Le Sacre Du Printemps, Mozart’s Thamos King Of Eg ypt and Bizet’s Carmen, to critical acclaim.
Tickets: RM100 to RM200. Call 03-2331 7007 or visit www.mpo.com.my.