RSNO Season Finale: Mahler Three

The evening is dedicated entirely to Mahler’s Symphony No. 3, a work of vast proportions that seeks to encompass the whole of the natural world. You will hear a performance that spans roughly ninety-eight minutes, beginning with a powerful first movement that evokes the awakening of summer. The music then transitions through delicate floral textures and animalistic calls before reaching a spiritual dimension. As the symphony progresses, the mezzo-soprano soloist and two distinct choirs add a human and celestial layer to the textures. You should listen for the contrasting moods, ranging from the rowdy energy of a marching band to the hushed, profound stillness of the final movement. Unlike many symphonies that end with a loud flourish, this work concludes with a long, slow meditation for the strings that gradually builds in intensity and warmth. With over a hundred musicians on the stage, the sheer scale of the sound provides an immersive experience that moves from the earthiest foundations to a vision of universal love.

The Royal Scottish National Orchestra is led here by its conductor, Thomas Søndergård. This ensemble is a cornerstone of Scotland’s cultural life, known for its versatile discography and regular appearances across the country's major concert halls. Joining them is mezzo-soprano Beth Taylor, alongside the RSNO Chorus, directed by Stephen Doughty, and the RSNO Youth Chorus, led by Patrick Barrett. The inclusion of two vocal groups allows the orchestra to explore the specific choral colours Mahler required. This performance also features BSL interpretation by Paul Whittaker, ensuring the musical and lyrical narrative is accessible to a wider audience.

This performance takes place at the Usher Hall in Edinburgh. The total running time is approximately ninety-eight minutes. Because the symphony is a continuous journey of six movements without an interval, it is well-suited to those who enjoy being fully immersed in a single, large-scale narrative. The dress convention for evening concerts at this venue is generally smart-casual, and there is no specific requirement for formal attire. For this specific date, BSL interpretation is provided on stage to assist d/Deaf and hard-of-hearing audience members in following the vocal sections and musical structure.