Review: Mahler's Second!

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

Mahler Symphony No. 2

Conducted by Vasily Petrenko

Soloists- Miah Persson (Soprano) and Jennifer Johnston (Mezzo- Soprano)

Sunday 1st March 3pm at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall

The second concert in the RLPO’s Mahler Cycle certainly didn’t disappoint. The first half comprised of some Mahler Lieder, expertly performed by both Persson and Johnston, who had such clear understanding of the text. Special recognition should be given to Johnston’s rich tone and perfect diction which permeated to the back of the concert hall, captivating the audience. This first half very much served as the calm before the storm of Mahler’s 2nd Symphony and was a suitable appetizer.

In any other concert you might expect the interval to follow next. However, Petrenko decided to have the interval after the first movement of the Mahler, which he very eloquently explained to the audience. Mahler specified a 5-minute interval between the first and second movements, believing the emotional change too abrupt without a moment of reflection.

On the whole, the concert was excellent with many fantastic displays of musicianship throughout the afternoon. Particularly from principal trumpet James Fountain who had been brought in at the last minute due to illness. Occasionally, the ensemble became a little uncoordinated, but this matters very little when performing a piece this monumental. The climatic ending with the addition of offstage brass brought shivers and tears to audience members, resulting in raucous applause. If this is anything to go by the rest of Petrenko’s Mahler Cycle will be something to behold!

With thanks to Rhys Owens and Nigel Dufty for kindly providing tickets.