Gathering Note

Month: May 2025

  • Mahler’s many voices: how the CSO has shaped and been shaped by his music

    Mahler’s many voices: how the CSO has shaped and been shaped by his music

    Originally published on Seen and Heard International A palpable buzz filled Orchestra Hall on the afternoon of May 9th, as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, led by Jaap van Zweden, launched into Mahler’s formidable Sixth Symphony. The Friday matinee had drawn a full house, and the performance that unfolded was a gripping study of control, power,…

  • Jaap van Zweden returns with a blazing Mahler Sixth

    Jaap van Zweden returns with a blazing Mahler Sixth

    Jaap van Zweden returned to Orchestra Hall this week to lead the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in two commanding performances of Mahler’s Sixth Symphony. Whether by design or coincidence, this symphony has become something of a calling card for the Dutch maestro during his visits to Chicago. Van Zweden was on the podium the last two…

  • CSO shines under Mäkelä’s baton in trio performance of Brahms, Boulez, Dvořák

    CSO shines under Mäkelä’s baton in trio performance of Brahms, Boulez, Dvořák

    Originally published on Seen and Heard International Brahms’ Second Piano Concerto is a meaty work.. It may not be as imposing as Mahler’s Third Symphony, but large enough in musical vision that it places great demand on both soloist and orchestra. Thus, it was an appropriate choice for Klaus Mäkelä’s second week with the Chicago…