Mahler 5
Reference, 2026
9/10
The inimitable Sir Donald Runnicles leads the Grand Teton Music Festival Orchestral through Mahler's Symphony No. 5, which was captured at the Walk Festival Hall in Teton Village, Wyoming.
“Part 1: I. Trauermarsch. In gemessenem Schritt. Streng. Wie ein Kondukt” opens with the booming percussion and elegant strings unfolding in both calm and tense bouts across the cinematic 13+ minutes.
“Part 1: II. Stürmisch bewegt. Mit grösster Vehemenz” blends the sophisticated strings with colorful winds via the melodic appeal, while “Part 2: III. Scherzo. Kräftig, nicht zu schnell” unfolds with dreamy flutes and intimate waves of strings that are heartfelt.
Residing near the end, the rich and emotive presence of “IV. Adagietto. Sehr langsam” is largely calm before the ebullient finish, and “Part 3: V. Rondo-Finale. Allegro” builds into a colorful and meticulous album highlight that’s powerful, elegant and captivating.
The incredible acoustics of the venue only enhance the listen, as the orchestra play with the detail and dynamics they’re globally known for, and certainly do justice to Mahler’s work.
Travels well with: Sean Shibe- Vesper; Elsa Barraine- Symphonies 1 & 2, Song-Koï (Le Fleuve rouge), and Les Tziganes