Open Rehearsal: Nagano conducts Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony
Kent Nagano – conductorArtists
Jane Archibald – soprano
Christina Bock – mezzo-soprano
Philharmonia Chorus
Programme
Hildegard of Bingen O vis aeternitatis
Mahler Symphony No. 2, 'Resurrection'
The Philharnonia invites you into Gustav Mahler’s world – a world saturated with orchestral colour.
Since it was founded in 1945, the Philharmonia has given many outstanding performances of Mahler’s epic, all-embracing symphonies. In the orchestra’s 80th anniversary season, ‘superb’ (Opera Now) conductor Kent Nagano takes to the podium for the great Resurrection Symphony, scored for a large orchestra, two solo singers and chorus.
In his own programme notes for the symphony’s premiere, Mahler describes the work’s rollercoaster of an emotional journey: the first movement represents a funeral. Then come movements depicting happy memories, followed by the fear that life may have no meaning at all. But reassurance comes from the soprano who sings “I come from God, and to God I shall return.” In the monumental finale, soloists and chorus affirm “O believe, you were not born for nothing!”
Nagano has chosen to preface Mahler’s deeply spiritual work with a chant by the medieval abbess and visionary Hildegard of Bingen. Composed around 750 years before Mahler’s symphony, it sings the same song of faith and redemption.
All you need to know
Price
£7
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Running time
Approximately 2.5 hrs (subject to change)
Recommended age
From 7+
Programme notes
Digital programme notes available closer to the rehearsal.
Contact the Friends team
Phone: 020 7921 3906
Email: friends@philharmonia.co.uk
Concerto and Symphony Friends
Concerto and Symphony Friends members can claim their complimentary open rehearsal tickets by emailing friends@philharmonia.co.uk.
About
Open rehearsals are not performances. Playing may be paused at various intervals in order for the conductor, soloist and orchestra to agree on specific styles and dynamics.
Open rehearsals will take place in the auditorium where the concert is due to be performed, unless otherwise specified. Times and repertoire being rehearsed will be confirmed prior to the rehearsal date, as these schedules are subject to change.
Please note that open rehearsals are working processes for the conductor and the Orchestra, we cannot guarantee that pieces will be played in their entirety. Timings are subject to change and every endeavour will be made to let ticket holders know in advance about any such changes. Please check our website for up-to-date information.
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