Thread: Gustav Mahler
View Single Post
  (#8 (permalink)) Old
Nightfly (Offline)
Moderator
 
Nightfly's Avatar
 
Posts: 4,829
Thanks: 430
Thanked 210 Times in 155 Posts
Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: New York
Interesting.. - 06-13-2007, 06:39 PM

Quote:
Originally Posted by squash54 View Post
Hi all,
I love music (and rugby) but did not listen to much Mahler until I was given a boxed set of his Symphonies played by the magnificent Chicago Symphony Orchestra under Sir George Solti. I was watching a Rugby test match on TV and became tired of the inane commentary which, to my mind, was spoiling the spectacle of the sporting contest. So I decided to switch off the sound and put Mahler's 5th on (loud) and listen to it at the same time. My ears nearly fell off as the combination was so good - sometimes the drama of the music exactly matched what was occuring on the field.This work is now one of my favorites and I really enjoy choosing various pieces of classical music to listen to while watching sport on TV (it works with cricket too!!).
I know Solti has attracted criticism for his interpretation of Mahler's music as too 'brutal' and 'unsubtle' but it works for me and I recommend the entire set without reservation. Some of the works are also available individually including another favorite, the 2nd.
All the best.
You created your own sound track to a Rugby match...Interesting! I know the 5th very dramatic and emotional... I have never considered Solti's interpretation's but I will seek his out and give them a listen.. I like Bernstein's, Szells, Walters but they are typical.. I need a fresh approach ..for a new experience.
Take care,
Nightfly
Reply With Quote