MAHLER'S FIRST SYMPHONY. Frank Peter Zimmermann and Ludovic Morlot

REPERTOIRE

Robert Schumann: Violin Concerto in D minor, WoO 23 (1853) 30′
Gustav Mahler: Symphony No. 1 in D major “Titan” (1887-1888) 60′

ARTISTS

Ludovic Morlot, conductor
Frank Peter Zimmermann, violin
Barcelona Symphony Orchestra (OBC)

PROGRAMME

Although Robert Schumann is best known for his piano concerto, the concerto for violin he composed in 1853 exhibits similar qualities from the very beginning, where the orchestra prepares for the entrance of the soloist. A powerful voice, which seems to clamour for its place in the world, but eventually adopts a more nuanced and lyrical style.

Gustav Mahler wanted to construct an artistic personality in his first symphony, which he called “Titan” after the novel by Jean Paul. Although some episodes also appear in Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen (Songs of a Wayfarer), the version that is performed in concert halls is not descriptive and makes no reference to their content. The work suggests a journey through life from the awakening of nature at the break of day to a victorious climax.