The best version of the Mahler 5th. Period. This pivotal symphonic work, where Mahler became a master of his craft, is one of the most potent musical statements of the 20th century. The first movement is a vision or premonition of the horrors mankind will inflict on itself through discrimination and war during the 20th century, and the last movement shows the complete opposite, in that all that misery can be avoided if mankind were to work together in love and collaboration and achieve true happiness.

Bernstein understands this symphony like no one else, and in this vivid and powerful live recording, truly reveals what lies behind the score.

Jean-Yves Duperron