With this new recording of Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 “Resurrection”, the Basel Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Markus Poschner presents a powerful artistic statement marking the beginning of a new era. Few works could have been more fitting for Poschner’s debut as Chief Conductor in Basel in autumn 2025: Mahler’s monumental Second Symphony unites existential depth with visionary sonic grandeur, demanding both emotional commitment and structural clarity.

At the heart of Poschner’s interpretation lies a deliberately streamlined, transparent, and finely balanced Mahler sound. Rather than overwhelming massiveness, he emphasizes precise articulation, subtle dynamic shading, and a clear projection of the orchestral lines. This approach brings out both the intricate layers of the score and the chamber-like moments that give Mahler’s music its distinctive tension. The Basel Symphony Orchestra follows this vision with impressive precision and tonal flexibility – from the darkly turbulent opening to the radiant, transfigured finale. The vocal solo parts are entrusted to two outstanding artists: Nikola Hillebrand (soprano) and Wiebke Lehmkuhl (mezzo-soprano), whose voices combine brilliance with warmth and intimacy. The MDR Leipzig Radio Choir contributes a performance of great cohesion, expressive power, and textual clarity, forming the solid foundation of the majestic final movement.