Elisabeth Schwarzkopf (soprano) & Hilde Rössl-Majdan (contralto)
Philharmonia Orchestra & Chorus
Otto Klemperer
The epic Symphony No. 2 brought Gustav Mahler and Otto Klemperer together in 1905, when the 20-year-old conductor took charge of the off-stage band for a performance in Berlin. Mahler, impressed, subsequently recommended him for appointments in Prague and Hamburg. In this recording Klemperer rewards the composer’s faith with an interpretation of granite-like strength, drawing magnificent performances from orchestra, chorus and soloists.