Knoxville Symphony Orchestra to Showcase Mahler’s Masterpieces

News Summary

The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra is set to perform Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 this January, continuing their exploration of Mahler’s hauntingly beautiful works. Following the success of Symphony No. 4, concertgoers can expect an emotional and complex musical journey with captivating performances featuring Concertmaster William Shaub. The concert promises to enthrall audiences with sweeping melodies that showcase the brilliance of Mahler’s symphonic innovations.

Knoxville Gets Ready for a Mahler Musical Extravaganza!

Excitement is in the air here in Knoxville as the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra gears up to perform Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 this January! It’s hard to believe, but this will be a continuation of their journey into Mahler’s stunning musical world, following the lovely Symphony No. 4 performed just last year. Given the sweeping emotions and genius complexities showcased in both of these masterpieces, concertgoers have every reason to be thrilled.

A Symphony Adventure Awaits

Mahler’s Symphony No. 4 left audiences enchanted when the KSO last took the stage. The performance displayed the symphony’s intricate structures and deep emotional layers, captivating everyone present. Now, as they prepare to unveil Symphony No. 5, this promises another thrilling experience. The Symphony No. 5 premiered all the way back in 1904 in Cologne, and it runs for about 1 hour and 12 minutes – a perfect length for those who love to lose themselves in music!

This symphony starts off with a bright trumpet fanfare that fans of Symphony No. 4 will recognize, leading into a haunting funeral march, a tempestuous storm movement, and an expansive Scherzo. But that’s not all! There’s a lush Adagietto that adds a beautiful contrast to the stormy segments, ultimately culminating in a triumphant Finale that’s sure to leave listeners breathless.

Exciting Changes in the Program

While audiences may have been looking forward to the previously planned performance of Stokowski’s transcription of J.S. Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D minor, it’s officially off the program. That leaves all the focus on Mahler, and honestly, who could complain about that?

Introducing Concertmaster William Shaub

Featured prominently in this exciting concert will be the talented Concertmaster, William Shaub, who will perform on his exquisite 1865 Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume violin. To create even more unique soundscapes during the performance, Shaub will be switching to a second violin tuned using a special technique known as scordatura for selected eerie solos in the second-movement scherzo. This technique has its roots in art, as Mahler’s widow Alma suggested it was influenced by a haunting painting from 1872. These “deathly” qualities are exactly what Mahler aimed for, and audiences can expect this added dimension to elevate the music even further.

Two Distinct Mahler Works

As a reminder of last year’s symphonic journey, Mahler’s Symphony No. 4 also holds a special place in this upcoming performance. It features a solo soprano, Laura Strickling, in its final movement—a lovely reward for those who stay until the very end! This symphony is a bit more modest with its orchestration compared to the monumental scope of Symphony No. 5 and boasts a classical quality that highlights the brass and wind instruments beautifully. Expect stunning brass solos that stand prominently within this roughly one-hour piece.

The Mind of Mahler

One of the intriguing aspects of Mahler’s work is his belief that each symphony expresses a different state of mind, deeply reflective of the inspirations he encountered throughout his life. With the KSO bringing Mahler’s masterpieces back to Knoxville after a huge 20-year gap for Symphony No. 4, this concert isn’t just about beautiful music—it’s about celebrating Mahler’s emotional journey and the lasting impact he has had on the classical world.

So, mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready for a night filled with majestic melodies and emotional storytelling that only the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra can deliver!