Mahler in Korea: From Craze to Everyday Repertoire
Creatrip Team
2 months ago
Korean orchestras are programming Gustav Mahler extensively this year, with over 20 performances of his symphonies and the symphonic song cycle 'Das Lied von der Erde' nationwide. Mahler’s works—known for large orchestras, long durations, and frequent use of voices—were unpopular in his lifetime but rose to prominence after World War II, helped by conductors like Bruno Walter and Leonard Bernstein. In Korea, early advocates in the 1970s–80s and landmark full cycles by Im Heon-jeong’s Bucheon Philharmonic (1999–2003) and conductor Chung Myung-whun’s leadership helped spark local Mahler interest. Major ensembles such as the Seoul Philharmonic and KBS Symphony are continuing Mahler cycles under conductors like Jaap van Zweden and Chung Myung-whun, while regional orchestras and projects (e.g., the “Mahlerian Orchestra”) also present full or partial cycles. Critics say improved orchestral standards and modern audio technology, plus audiences’ appetite for Mahler’s emotional intensity, have made his symphonies routine repertoire rather than rare special programs. (Das Lied von der Erde: Mahler’s symphonic song cycle)
