Symphony No. 2 in C Minor (Resurrection)
Gustav Mahler
Work background
Researched classical background
Mahler's Second Symphony begins with a large funeral movement and eventually answers it with voices. Dance-like recollection and a restless scherzo precede the intimate song Urlicht and the expansive choral finale. The work developed over several years rather than in one uninterrupted draft. Its final text combines Klopstock's resurrection poem with Mahler's own words, making the vocal conclusion integral to the design.
Inspiration and creative background
Mahler explicitly associated the opening with questions about life and suffering, answered by resurrection in the finale.
Symphony No. 2 in C minor, "Resurrection" - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
A listening guide
Compare the very quiet first entry of the chorus with the huge orchestral forces heard earlier in the finale.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Soprano and alto soloists, mixed chorus, and large orchestra
Composition: 1888-1894
The first movement began separately as Todtenfeier; the final movement was completed after a long gap.
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Also known as: Resurrection Symphony
Symphony No. 2 in C minor, "Resurrection" - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Symphony No. 2 in C minor, "Resurrection" - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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