The grandest of Gustav Mahler\u2019s nine completed symphonies, a sonic extravaganza, the Eighth calls for an enormous orchestra \u2014 plus mandolin, piano, harmonium, organ and a separate band of trumpets and trombones. In addition to children\u2019s and adult choruses, it employs eight vocal soloists. No wonder it\u2019s not often programmed. The DSO hasn\u2019t done it since 2000.<\/p>\n
But it has some of the most mystical, ecstatic and thrilling music in Mahler\u2019s oeuvre. The symphony\u2019s first half sets the Latin hymn \u201cVeni, creator spiritus,\u201d invoking the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit. The second half dramatizes the final scene of Goethe\u2019s\u00a0Faust,\u00a0as hermits, penitents and multiple choruses point to the redemptive Mater Glorioso and the promise of \u201cloftier spheres\u201d and \u201cblissful happiness.\u201d<\/p>\n