Mahler’s Symphony No. 2. “Resurrection”

Tune in for a Powerful Farewell Performance: Mahler’s “Resurrection” with The Phoenix Symphony

On Monday, November 25, 2024, join us for an extraordinary program by The Phoenix Symphony, it’s final concert of the season. This highly anticipated program marks a poignant moment for the orchestra as it bids farewell to its beloved music director, Tito Muñoz, who will take his final bow after a decade of remarkable leadership. The evening’s centerpiece is Gustav Mahler’s monumental Symphony No. 2, Resurrection, featuring the exquisite voices of soprano Katherine Whyte and contralto Megan Esther Grey. The Phoenix Symphony Chorus, led by Dr. Thomas Bookhout, joins the orchestra in this emotionally stirring performance that promises to be an unforgettable culmination of Muñoz’s tenure.

Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, Resurrection, is a towering work that delves into the deepest existential questions about life, death, and the possibility of an afterlife. Spanning five expansive movements and requiring a massive orchestra, chorus, and vocal soloists, the symphony is one of Mahler’s most ambitious creations. It took him six years to complete, with inspiration rooted in his personal struggles and philosophical musings on the fate of the soul after death.

The first movement, an Allegro maestoso, opens with a dramatic funeral march, setting a somber tone that reflects the inevitability of death. Mahler then transports listeners through a series of contrasting scenes: the serene, dance-like Andante moderato provides a nostalgic glimpse of life’s fleeting beauty, followed by the unsettling Scherzo, filled with swirling, mocking rhythms that evoke a sense of chaos and uncertainty. In the fourth movement, Urlicht (“Primeval Light”), the contralto soloist sings a poignant plea for redemption, a moment of deep introspection and quiet yearning that bridges the earthly with the divine.

The finale is a breathtaking journey from despair to transcendence. Mahler’s use of the chorus is groundbreaking, as it enters almost imperceptibly with the words “Aufersteh’n, ja aufersteh’n” (“Rise again, yes, rise again”), a hushed invocation that gradually swells into a majestic, all-encompassing sound. The soprano joins with a voice of angelic purity, signaling the soul’s ascent and the ultimate promise of resurrection. The symphony concludes in a triumphant blaze of sound, with the orchestra, soloists, and chorus united in a powerful affirmation of life’s eternal renewal. This epic journey from darkness to light captures the human spirit’s resilience, making it a fitting farewell for Muñoz, whose tenure has been marked by emotional depth and artistic courage.

Virginia G. Piper Music Director Tito Muñoz’s tenure with The Phoenix Symphony has been transformative. Appointed as music director in 2014, Muñoz brought a fresh perspective to the ensemble, championing innovative programming and elevating the orchestra’s profile on the national stage. Under his leadership, the symphony has tackled everything from traditional masterpieces to contemporary works, showcasing a dynamic range that has resonated with audiences. His commitment to outreach and education has also strengthened the Symphony’s connection to the community, creating programs that have introduced new listeners to the power of orchestral music.

Muñoz’s decision to conclude his tenure with Mahler’s Resurrection is a powerful statement. This epic work, with its themes of renewal and hope, reflects his artistic journey and the legacy he leaves behind—a revitalized orchestra ready to rise to new heights. His departure marks the end of a significant chapter, but his influence will be felt in the years to come, as The Phoenix Symphony continues to build on the foundation he has laid.

Exceptional Vocal Soloists

Soprano Katherine Whyte and contralto Megan Esther Grey bring extraordinary talent to this performance. Whyte, known for her expressive voice and stunning stage presence, has graced top venues worldwide, including the Metropolitan Opera, where she made her debut in 2007. Grey, a recent standout graduate of the Met’s Lindemann Young Artist Development Program, has quickly made a name for herself with her powerful contralto voice and compelling artistry, gaining recognition on major operatic and concert stages alike. Together, their voices will add a sublime dimension to Mahler’s powerful vision.

A Grand Farewell Awaits

Don’t miss this extraordinary broadcast of The Phoenix Symphony’s season finale on Monday, November 25, 2024, at 7 PM. It’s a night of profound music, emotional farewells, and a celebration of Tito Muñoz’s legacy. Join us on KNAU Arizona Public Radio, DTV 8.5, Classical Arizona PBS, and Classical 89.5 KBACH for an evening that promises to be a fitting tribute to one of the most impactful music directors in the orchestra’s history. Mark your calendars and be part of this unforgettable musical journey!