Mahler Academy Orchestra; Philipp von Steinaecker - Mahler: Symphony No. 5 [CD]

Experience Mahler's monumental Symphony No. 5 as never before with this August release from Alpha Classics. Conducted by Philipp von Steinaecker and performed by the Mahler Academy Orchestra, this recording utilizes period instruments to offer a fresh perspective on the composer's iconic work.

This rendition is based on the new Breitkopf & Härtel Urtext edition, incorporating the composer's own corrections. The Mahler Academy Orchestra, an initiative of the Gustav Mahler Academy in Bolzano founded by Claudio Abbado, comprises young professional musicians and seasoned instrumentalists from Europe's leading orchestras. Under Steinaecker's artistic direction, the ensemble meticulously recreates the instrumentation of the Vienna Philharmonic around 1900, delving into the performance practices of Mahler's era.

This project, a co-production of the Busoni-Mahler Foundation and the Euregio Kulturzentrum Gustav Mahler Toblach Foundation, is held under the patronage of Marina Mahler, granddaughter of Gustav and Alma Mahler. The famous Adagietto from this symphony was written for her after her meeting with Gustav in 1901.

• Mahler's Symphony No. 5 performed on period instruments.
• Features the Mahler Academy Orchestra under Philipp von Steinaecker.
• Based on the new Breitkopf & Härtel Urtext edition with composer corrections.
• Ensemble recreates the instrumentation of the Vienna Philharmonic circa 1900.
• Explores Mahler-era performance practice for a new interpretation.
• Patronage by Marina Mahler, granddaughter of the composer.

This recording offers a unique opportunity to hear Mahler's Fifth Symphony through the lens of historical performance, shedding new light on its enduring power and complexity.