It was for works such as Mahler’s Second Symphony that the word “Überwältigungsästhetik” (“overwhelming aesthetic”) was invented. Its unofficial name of “Resurrection Symphony” expresses the pretence of the work – this music aims to liberate its listeners. However, this shouldn’t worry the listeners, as the work reigns supreme with appealing melodies and sensational instrumentation. Instead of the polyphony of later works, here we are dealing with wide-screen effects which formulate their own new demands. Mahler once called it “creating a world”, although in this case he sometimes seems to be embracing this world. Audiences always react warmly and with gratitude. Mahler’s Second is one of his best loved Symphonies. 

Sir Simon Rattle Conductor
Berlin Radio Choir
Berliner Philharmoniker
Kate Royal Soprano
Magdalena Kozená Mezzo Soprano

Gustav Mahler
2nd Symphony in C minor, “Resurrection Symphony”