Karina Canellakis conducts Mahler 3

Mahler's monumental Third is a symphonic marathon of souls that every listener wants to experience live several times in their lifetime. Mahler expert Karina Canellakis and the Radio Philharmonic Orchestra are going for it. For the hundred-minute spectacle, they will have broad backing from the Grand Omroepkoor, the National Children's Choir and mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke.

After composing the cosmic Second Symphony, Mahler felt confident. Like never before, he got a grip on symphonic form, mirroring such great predecessors as Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven. His Third Symphony was to include "the creation of the complete world. Mahler was serious because the first movement is already longer than many a symphony. In the moving last movement, Mahler reconciles himself to the glory of the world.

The Mahler concerts by conductor Karina Canellakis and the Radio Philharmonic Orchestra have now become an event. English newspaper The Guardian was full of praise for Canellakis' take on Mahler's First Symphony. 'Karina Canellakis' fiery Mahler overpowers,' judged the NRC. With the imposing Third, the conductor takes energizing giant steps.