Artists
Xian Zhang – conductor
Claudia Mahnke – mezzo soprano
Andreas Schager – tenor
Programme
Mozart Symphony No. 25, K.183
— Interval —
Mahler Das Lied von der Erde
Xian Zhang brings her charismatic energy and panache to a programme embracing youth and beauty, old age and farewell, nature and renewal.
Mahler’s The Song of the Earth is an hour-long, soul-searching journey in the company of a composer examining his own mortality and love for life from all angles. In six settings of ancient Chinese poems, Mahler reflects on the transience of human life, the joys of young love, good wine, and enduring friendship, and the eternal power of nature.
Claudia Mahnke shares Mahler’s spine-tingling vocal writing with Austrian tenor Andreas Schager.
Mozart’s Symphony No. 25, in contrast, was composed when he was just 17 years old, and yet it shows remarkable maturity. With the stormy and dramatic minor-key first movement (made famous in the film Amadeus) Mozart seems to announce that he is leaving behind his role as child prodigy and court entertainer. And the graceful slow movement, perfectly-formed minuet and vigorous finale that follow confirm his transition to era-defining composer.
This concert is sponsored by:
Need to know
Prices & Discounts
£12 – £58 (premium)
Subscription discounts available; under-18s and concessions discounts available; £8 tickets for students via Student Pulse one month before the concert (limited availability)
Running Time
2 hours, including 20 minute interval
Recommended age
From 7+
Change of artist
Dame Sarah Connolly has had to withdraw from this performance due to ongoing treatment for breast cancer. We are grateful to Claudia Mahnke for stepping in. Dame Sarah intends to return to performing later this year.
Box office
Philharmonia Box Office: 0800 652 6717
Before the concert
Part of 2019/20 London Season
