The Tonhalle-Orchester-Zürich, conducted by Paavo Järvi, thrills audiences at the Musikverein with Mahler's Second Symphony
Der Standard, Ljubiša Tošić, 24 November, 2025 Symphonic Resurrection and Heartfelt Outpourings at the Musikverein Anyone who claims to comprehensively depict fundamental existential themes in a work also places considerable burdens on the performers. With Gustav Mahler's Second Symphony, the "Resurrection Symphony," this universal cosmos of sonic and dramatic excess, the challenge is to precisely delineate the most emotional highs and lows while still leading the way to "redemption" with impulsive conviction. At the Musikverein, this is achieved with aplomb. From the very first cello and double bass entrance, the Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich displays meticulous and assertive playing; disciplined, precise attack and clear layering of sound dominate. However, with Mahler, discipline and clarity must not obscure the ambivalence inherent in his ideas. Conductor Paavo Järvi understands how to avoid any form of bland uniformity. In the opening "Funeral Rites,...
