Symphony No. 2 in C Minor ‘Resurrection’

Dame Sarah Connolly (mezzo-soprano), Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha (soprano)
Hallé Choir, Hallé Youth Choir
Hallé Orchestra conductor Kahchun Wong

Hallé CDHLD7568 (2 CDs)
https://halle.co.uk/

I have to confess: Mahler's mighty Symphony No. 2 in C Minor ‘Resurrection’, is my favourite of his symphonic oeuvre and the composer's most ambitious search for the meaning of life. Conceived and delivered on an epic scale, it features soloists, a choir, and an enlarged orchestra. The music offers a directness of expression which transports the listener through a series of climaxes and reflections, culminating in a Last Judgement in which the composer said, 'An overwhelming love illuminates our being'.

There is so much to enjoy about this recording, not least how Kahchun Wong and the Hallé work together to give an utterly transfixing performance—all the more remarkable as we are merely listening, not watching him conduct. At times, all musical departments fizz with energy, and the strings pulsate with superbly measured and precise tension. Brass and percussion prove thrilling throughout.

Wong's penetrating insight into the score speaks directly to the listener. Everything is sharp, clear and beautifully articulated. The dynamics are at times gripping, everything marvellously connected. The fourth movement sees Dame Sarah Connolly's mezzo-soprano assured in tone, with the pianississimo ending expressively conveyed.

The exhilarating finale—featuring the mighty Forever Bells on loan from the RLPO and showcased in the accompanying booklet—was given space by Wong. The horns are magnificent, and the exciting tam-tam, along with the excellent choirs, excels. The expressive entry of the voices is atmospheric and so well controlled, with the dynamics superbly deployed. There is an all-round vibrancy. Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha delights with her pure-toned soprano. The crescendos and climaxes are outstanding, as the grandeur of the forces, along with the organ, brings the magnificence of the symphony to a glorious, triumphal E♭ major close, everything ringing out. No wonder the audience responded with immediate applause and cheering—for in that final chord, overwhelming love truly does illuminate our being.

There is a personal introduction from Kahchun Wong reflecting on what Mahler's music means to him, as well as a programme note by Mahler expert and composer David Matthews. Recorded live and in rehearsal at Manchester's Bridgewater Hall.