Massed strings and large choral groups

Brownsfan, interesting that you mention Mahler. Just a few days ago I had the pleasure of taking part in a performance of Mahler's 8th symphony. As you know, it is scored not only for large orchestra, but also for large choral ensemble. The subject of blend (or not) vs clarity of individual line was one that was discussed at length during rehearsal. This article was used as one of the references on the subject. You may find it interesting:

http://books.google.com/books?id=xE9PQzkLOZkC&pg=PA15&lpg=PA15&dq=mahler+and+instrumental+blend&source=bl&ots=ys1IHesuQS&sig=UxYCOhfUuHt2u_neOhzWxrb9IHE&hl=en&sa=X&ei=LrDfUJqUCqq00QGtooHIDA&ved=0CD0Q6AEwBDgU#v=onepage&q=mahler%20and%20instrumental%20blend&f=false

Frogman, thanks much. I will give it a read. I probably like the Mahler 8th the least. I recently pinned it down to the abrupt opening of the massed chorus. It is interesting though, that one of my favorite Bruckner works, the Te Deum, opens in a very similar fashion, but rapidly shifts to the soloist.
Mahler done well live is something special indeed. I made the trip to Cleveland this year for the Mahler 3 opening concert. Oh my! 1.5 hours of pure, uninterrupted bliss. Row E, left of center.

Frogman, do you sing in a choir or play an instrument? You said you took part in a Mahler performance.....

Whart, I play clarinets and saxophones. In that particular performance I played the bass clarinet/C clarinet part.

Regards.

I agree, the 4th movement, Chorale, from Beethoven's 9th is a challenge that my system struggles with and always frustrates me when I listen.