Pierre Boulez’s recording of Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 with the Wiener Philharmoniker (Vienna Philharmonic) is a critically acclaimed entry in his complete Mahler cycle for Deutsche Grammophon.
Recording and Release Details
Recording Date: March 25–26, 1996, at the Musikverein, Vienna.
Original Release: January 1, 1997.
Total Runtime: Approximately 72 minutes.
Movement Breakdown
The performance is divided into the symphony's standard five movements across three parts:
I. Trauermarsch (Funeral March): 12:52
II. Stürmisch bewegt, mit größter Vehemenz: 15:03
III. Scherzo. Kräftig, nicht zu schnell: 18:13
IV. Adagietto. Sehr langsam: 10:59
V. Rondo-Finale. Allegro: 15:08
Characteristics
Boulez is noted for his analytical and clear-eyed approach to Mahler, avoiding the excessive sentimentality sometimes found in other interpretations. Critics often highlight the "transparency" and precision of the Vienna Philharmonic's playing under his direction.
Availability
The recording is widely available on streaming platforms and physical formats:
Streaming: Spotify, Apple Music, and Qobuz.
Physical: Various CD editions exist, including the original 1997 release and later inclusions in Boulez’s complete Mahler and DG career boxes.