Symphony No. 4 in G

Composed between 1899-1901, Mahler's Fourth is one of his most widely loved and often played symphonies. Adopting the traditional four-movement structure and utlilising a (relatively) modest orchestra, with no trombones or tubas, the work explores themes of Childhood from a heavenly viewpoint. The tuneful nature takes one by surprise and then through folk-inspired soundscapes and terrains across the four movements. The iconic finale, originally written in 1892 as a stand-alone piece for Voice and Piano, features an infamous mezzo-soprano solo depicting a childlike vision of a carefree life in Heaven.

Read Hugh Macdonald's programme note for the LA Phil here.

Read the BSO's programme note by Michael Steinberg here.