The Mahler symphonies - David Hurwitz

Since Gustav Mahler was rediscovered in the early 1960s
his symphonies have become arguably the most popular works in the modern orchestral repertoire. Mahler's Symphonies: An Owner's Manual is the first discussion of the ten completed symphonies (No. 1-9 plus
The Song of the Earth ) to offer music lovers and record collectors a comprehensive overview of the music itself
what it sounds like
how it is organized
its form
content
and meaning
as it strikes today's listeners. The book caters to the novice as David Hurwitz describes what the listener will hear
section by section
using simple cues such as important instrumental solos
recognizable tunes
climaxes
and other easily audible musical facts. He explains how each work is arranged
how the various parts relate to each other
and how one work leads to the next. It describes the emotional extravagance that lies at the root of Mahler's popularity
the consistency of his symphonic thinking
the relationship of each work to its companions
and his dazzling and revolutionary use of orchestral instruments to create an expressive musical language that is varied in content and immediate in impact. The accompanying CD contains recordings from Symphony No. 1
Third Movement; Symphony No. 2
First Movement; Symphony No. 5
Third Movement; and Symphony No. 7
Second Movement:
Nachtmusik I.