What is a good intro to "Mahler"?

got any tough requests :-D normally i would recommend starting with symphony #1 and progressing thru #9. however since you want "life" and "fire" in great sound and performance, i would suggest starting w/#2 the Resurection Symphony, its got it all for a newbie to mahler. I have tennstadt on EMI lp. for cd i would recommend mehta on london. if you can find bernstein on LP give it a listen.

I second the 2nd. One requirement - listen to it without interuption all the way through, on a date and time you will be allowed to do so.

I have about 6 or 7 LP versions, but so far I prefer, as do many other Mahler fans I know, the Bernstein with the NYP, originally on Columbia(?). Hard to find on vinyl, but Sony has just reissued the Bernstein/NYP Mahler symphonies on CD. The press is positive and the price is around $60.

After repeated listenings, I think you will find this a symphony that will stay with you for a lifetime. Enjoy!!

If you really want to appreciate Mahler (a complex and fascinating individual), I would suggest you start by reading about him. A very good reference is "Mahler" and "Mahler: Vienna" both by Henry Louis de la Grange. Personally, I enjoy his music more now that I have an insight into his composing. If you want a great piece to start with, try Symphony No.1 by the Florida Philharmonic Orchestra (Harmonia Mundi). It's got it all; from an outstanding performance to - what we crave - sonic gymnastics.

Try any of the Zander recordings on Telarc. They are excellent and include an interesting and informative commentary by Zander.

I've always loved Kindertotenlieder, sung by Dietrich Fischer-Diskau, on DG - very easy to find on vinyl. Gorgeous songs, gorgeous orchestral accompaniment, unlike anything else out there!