MAHLER: Symphony No. 1
Royal Flemish Philharmonic
Edo de Waart, conductor
Total playing time: 54:11
Recorded June 25-27, 2012, at deSingel, Antwerp
Recording, mixing and mastering: Steven Maes for Serendipitous Classical Recordings and Mastering
Musical direction and editing: Wilhelm Hellweg
Gustav Mahler came of age in the late 1880s as the long and storied tradition of Austro German Romanticism reached its peak. As a conductor who regularly performed the great works of that tradition, Mahler knew this past intimately and felt its weight. This recording of Mahler's First Symphony is conducted by Edo de Waart, Chief Conductor of the Royal Flemish Philharmonic. Immersing himself in the musical world of Mahler, de Waart tries to discover what motivated Mahler and how this symphony took shape as a sequence of experiences: the first two movements progress from youthful springtime to confident adulthood; the last two progress from death to heaven.
A modern and stylistically flexible symphony orchestra, the Royal Flemish Philharmonic demonstrates an artistic - air which allows for a variety of styles - from classical to contemporary - in a historically authentic manner.
Chief Conductor Edo de Waart is responsible for the orchestra's main repertoire. Drawing on his vast orchestral experience, as former Chief Conductor of the Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra, San Francisco Symphony and Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, he contributes to the unique character of the Royal Flemish Philharmonic. He works in close co-operation with Principal Conductor Philippe Herreweghe, who makes use of his specific background in his readings of (pre) Romantic music. Martyn Brabbins is Principal Guest Conductor.
The Royal Flemish Philharmonic is proud to present its recordings in three high quality series, each with its distinct character. A-List brings you the great masterpieces, interpreted by renowned conductors. Belgian Boutique uncovers hidden gems from Belgian composers. Cutting Edge documents remarkable works of contemporary classical music.
