now playing

start of Mahler: Symphony No. 4 in G Major
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIU8Yr70dzk&list=OLAK5uy_ktZuUgbyWNrSUvSU78cZWBGVHcqWUfULs&index=1

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_ktZuUgbyWNrSUvSU78cZWBGVHcqWUfULs

>Osmo Vänksä and the Minnesota Orchestra’s cycle of Mahler symphonies has so far received mixed reviews, largely on account of Vänskä’s unwillingness to perform the von-Karajan-like or Bernstein-like “cosmic-scale” cinematography that has become associated with Mahler’s 2nd, 5th, and 6th symphonies. In this new recording of Mahler’s 4th symphony, Vänskä’s usual reticence becomes a boon in the first and last movements, and he indulges in a few powerful moments where necessary. The music is rife first with uncertainty and, eventually, serenity, but it never becomes oversaturated. This recording is powerful, and should convert some skeptics.

[...]

>Some will complain that Vänskä still doesn’t conduct Mahler as we know and love; judging by only the second movement, I would agree. But for the rest, I find his approach perfectly subjective and cinematic. The outstanding recording quality and superb musicians combine with Vänskä’s light touch to make a wonderful addition to this cycle.