Symphony No. 2 [CD], Wiebke Lehmkuhl, CD

With this new recording of Gustav Mahler's Symphony No. 2 Resurrection, the Basel Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Markus Poschner presents a powerful artistic statement marking the beginning of a new era. Few works could have been more fitting for Poschner's debut as Chief Conductor in Basel in autumn 2025: Mahler's monumental Second Symphony unites existential depth with visionary sonic grandeur, demanding both emotional commitment and structural clarity. At the heart of Poschner's interpretation lies a deliberately streamlined, transparent, and finely balanced Mahler sound. Rather than overwhelming massiveness, he emphasizes precise articulation, subtle dynamic shading, and a clear projection of the orchestral lines. This approach brings out both the intricate layers of the score and the chamber-like moments that give Mahler's music it's distinctive tension. With this recording, Markus Poschner and the Basel Symphony Orchestra not only document a significant artistic beginning, but also set a strong example of a modern Mahler interpretation that unites emotional intensity with structural transparency.