Search - Gustav Mahler, Leonard Slatkin, Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra :: Mahler: Symphony No. 1 "Titan"

Vivid

David Saemann | 11/14/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is an early digital recording, made in 1981 with the Soundstream digital processer. Detail and tone quality are excellent, with just the slightest lack of fullness in the tuttis. It is the speediest performance of the Mahler I've ever encountered, taking just over 50 minutes. Nevertheless, it never sounds rushed, and the characterization is vivid throughout. This was one of Slatkin's first recordings of the mainstream repertoire, and one must conclude that he has a lot to say about it. The orchestra boasts excellent principal players, particularly the first oboe. The string sound is not as luxurious as in some more celebrated ensembles, but the overall playing boasts good ensemble and a refreshing eagerness of execution. I wouldn't say this is one of the classic Mahler 1sts, such as Bernstein's or Bruno Walter's, but it is full of excitement and sensitivity, and should prove rewarding to the broad minded Mahlerite."