National Symphony Orchestra: Christoph Eschenbach, conductor: Mahler's Symphony No. 3 with Anne Sofie von Otter, mezzo-soprano, & 2 choruses

Opera Now says Anne Sofie von Otter "possesses one of the most flexible and natural vocal instruments of any living artist." The Grammy-nominated mezzo-soprano joins Christoph Eschenbach and the NSO's Mahler Explored series for the epic, full-evening Third Symphony. 

Renowned for its sunny nature and rapt intensity, Mahler's Third Symphony was composed from the picturesque isolation of his lakeside hut. It captures the mythical force and elegance of nature, brought to vivid life at the call of the mighty god Pan. This dramatic journey muses on the destiny of man, glimpses heaven through a chorus of angels, and concludes with a rousing hymn to love--taking inspiration from the texts of Nietzsche and Des Knaben Wunderhorn. The NSO also welcomes The Choral Arts Society of Washington and Children's Chorus of Washington for these performances.

"Mahler's Symphony No. 3, which is the composer's longest symphony, also includes three of the longest and most well-known trombone solos in the orchestral repertoire. The solos, all in the first movement, convey power, sadness, loneliness, and beauty in a very exposed manner at the dynamic extremes of the instrument."

--Craig Mulcahy, NSO principal trombone


Performance Timing: 99 minutes, with NO intermission

PLEASE NOTE: There is NO late seating for this performance. Please plan to arrive with sufficient time to be seated before the performance begins.

Note: Anne Sofie von Otter will sign CDs following the Friday, November 6 concert, in the Grand Foyer outside of the Concert Hall.