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Mahler & Rachmaninov (Berlin PO/Rattle)

Rachmaninov Symphonic Dances & Mahler 1st Symphony “Titan

Berlin PO/Rattle in Singapore

EuroArts 2058908

BERLIN PHILHARMONIC IN SINGAPORE/Simon Rattle, conductor

Recorded live at Esplanade Theatres on the Bay, Singapore, November 2010

A wonderful account of this problematic Mahler "warhorse" on DVD; the best of many 2nds I've heard or seen (if memory doesn't play tricks?).

We took it in two halves; straight through would have been too much (as it can be in concert), especially with the lengthy finale with its over-the-top orchestral excesses.

We had it on Blue-ray, but were not able to watch it in 3D as proclaimed on the cover - it's hard to keep up witht the technological developments.

Impossible to imagine Mahler writing it at white heat in his little composing hut at Wörthsee. The filming and sound quality are together one of the finest we've ever had and - dare I insist ? - beats the live experience, in which the huge finale always raises doubts.

Rachmaninov's last major work is an ideal coupling, better taken first as listed on the DVD.

This may well become your top demonstration disc for your proud new equipment. And try to hook the childen with the bitter-sweet Frère Jacques movement.

Peter Grahame Woolf