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MAHLER: Das Lied von der Erde   Alfreda Hodgson, John Mitchinson. BBC Northern Symphony Orchestra Jascha Horenstein    BBC Legends BBCL4042-2 73m ADD

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As I read Tony Duggan's masterly survey of this work , I was not surprised by the lengthy discussion of this seminal recording in the Mahler canon. There is a certain poignancy and grandeur in this last Horenstein recording that places it amongst the various legendary 'Das Lieds', Walter and Klemperer are to my mind top of the list alongside this one. Of course, Alfreda Hodgson cannot come near the exquisite beauty of Kathlen Ferrier's unique singing but she is deeply committed throughout as is the reliable and sturdy John Mitchison. The recording has resurfaced before in various pirate editions and it is thankful that the BBC have finally given it its due in this sumptuous Legends issue. It is indeed quite baffling to understand why we have had to wait almost thirty years to hear Horenstein's vision, but now all is happily resolved. The great conductor galvanizes his BBC North players with a special intensity; the lavish rehearsal time was indeed well spent. The first five movements contain much that is beautiful and intense but for me, it is that magnificent 'Der Abscheid' where the consummation of Mahler's art is truly inspired. A basic slow tempo is maintained throughout the whole performance and that adds to the monumental grandeur of this recording, which almost moves with a ponderous air to the realms of artistic bliss. Horenstein's painstaking work with the strings is evident with some beautifully rich tone and the recording is vivid and deeply impressive throughout. A short interview is added as an appendix and this sheds more light on Horenstein's fascination with Mahler. A richly rewarding experience, this Das Lied is an indispensable addition to the 'completist' Mahler discography and continues to confirm Horenstein's status as one of the great Mahlerians of the 20th century.

Reviewer

Gerald Fenech

Performance:

Sound:

See also Tony Duggan's detailed comparative review of the two BBC releases last month and Marc Bridle's different view

See also Tony Duggans complete survey of recordings of Das Lied


Reviewer

Gerald Fenech

Performance:

Sound:


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