In a list of works exemplifying the season theme of “The Adoration of Nature,” Mahler’s 3rd Symphony would be near the top. This gigantic and glorious six-movement hymn to Nature is the longest symphony in the standard repertoire. It’s also one of Mahler’s most optimistic, extroverted works. For Mahler, Nature wasn’t just the natural world; it was the entire world. Just as Nature overflows with astonishing colors and breathtaking beauty, Mahler’s universe of a symphony teems with brilliant orchestration and stunning melodies. It’s a 99-minute visceral and emotional rollercoaster with shifts of mood and surprising contrasts. The first movement, “Pan Awakens – Summer Marches In” bursts into life with a confident march. The second, “What the Flowers and Meadows Tell Me’’ is a charming minuet. Next comes the bustling scherzo, “What the Animals of the Forest Tell Me,” followed by the dark stillness of “What the Night Tells Me.” This movement features mezzo-soprano Kelly O’Connor, known for her “ravishingly velvet vocal tone” (San Francisco Chronicle). Night breaks into sunshine with “What the Morning Bells Tell Me,” opening with the angelic sound of a children’s chorus. The final movement, “What Love Tells Me” is a gorgeously grand slow movement expressing Mahler’s belief that “God can only be comprehended as Love.”

EPSG:4326

Festival Orchestra: Spano Leads Mahler's Third Symphony

Aspen Meadows Resort

Tune in to a free livestream of this concert live from the Benedict Music Tent.

Livestream: Spano Leads Mahler's Third Symphony

Conductor Nicholas McGegan’s sparkling performances are always Festival highlights. This mostly-Bach program features Awadagin Pratt in both a Bach keyboard concerto and Jesse Montgomery’s Rounds for piano and string orchestra, which he commissioned. Pratt has been long acclaimed for his musical insights and dynamic style. One of the crown jewels of Bach’s sacred works, Magnificat, will be performed by a stellar chorus of singers from the Aspen Opera Theatre Vocal Arts program. This uplifting concert in the intimate setting of Harris Concert Hall is sure to delight and inspire you!

AOTVA Chorus

Jul 30, 2023

Festival Orchestra: Spano Leads Mahler's Third Symphony

Jul 30, 2023

Livestream: Spano Leads Mahler's Third Symphony

AOTVA Chorus