Mahler from DF-D

 

I really only keep two recordings of Mahler's song cycles around anymore.

First is Dame Janet Baker with Sir John Barbirolli on EMI's Great Recordings of the Century.

The other is this one from the great German baritone Dietrich Fischer Dieskau, joined by Rafael Kubelík, Karl Böhm, and Karl Engel on DG Originals.

I mention all of the players for there is another Fischer-Dieskau Great Recordings of the Century as well, with Wilhelm Furtwängler in mono, Rudolf Kempe, both earlier than DG, and Daniel Barenboim on piano, recorded later than with Karl Engel.

Additionally, there are more recordings of Fischer-Dieskau in Mahler's song cycles, but these are considered the best in some circles.

From the recording at hand, I like Kubelík's faster way with Lieder eines Fahrenden Gesellen, comparatively to both Furtwängler and Barbirolli. Fischer-Dieskau sounds fresher all around.

Too bad we don't get all five orchestrated Rückert-Lieder, although he does that with Barenboim at the piano. This, coupled with Kindertotenlieder, are all well expressed by the baritone. I like Fischer-Dieskau's way with texts, and his later wayward singing tendencies are at a minimum here. Those who don't care for his vocal mannerisms won't be convinced either way, but I have always enjoyed his way with German lieder.

Listen on YouTube

Works
Lieder eines Fahrenden Gesellen (16.25)
Ruckert-Lieder (18.11)
Kindertotenlieder (24.45)
Individual Lieder

Performers
Karl Engel, piano
Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, baritone
Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra

Rafael Kubelík, conductor
Karl Böhm, conductor

Label: DG
Year: 1960-1970 / 2011
Total Timing: 74.17

I like how Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau moves the music along in comparison to Dame Janet. The two recordings complement each other nicely.

Should only be avoided by those allergic to DF-D's baritone or Mahler altogether.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Find more Mahler recordings HERE!