Version for two pianos by Hermann Behn

1 I. Maestoso. Mit durchaus ernstem und feierlichen Ausdruck 19:11
2 II. Andante con moto 9:35
3 III. In ruhig fließender Bewegung 10:17
4 IV. Urlicht. Sehr feierlich, aber schlicht 5:02
5 V. Finale. Im Zeitmaß des III. Satzes 7:44
6     Maestoso, Allegro energico 7:52
7     Der große Appell 15:55

Total 75:42

CHRISTIANE BEHN, MATHIAS WEBER Piano
DANIELA BECHLY Sopran
IRIS VERMILLION Alt
HARVESTEHUDER KAMMERCHOR
CLAUS BANTZER

First recording

Amongst Mahlers select circle of friends in Hamburg belonged Hermann Behn (1859-1927). This law graduate had also studied composition with Anton Bruckner in Vienna and with Joseph Rheinberger in Munich. His compositions include no fewer than nine song books and a piano sonata. Mahler considered him to be an important patron: Behn valued Mahler‘s music and assisted ( - also financially) its publication. Together with the Hamburg industrialist Wilhelm Berkhan he also funded the premiere of the second symphony, on 13th December 1895 in Berlin. Mahler was, in turn, very impressed by Behn‘s compositions, particularly his songs. After Mahler had completed his second symphony he gave the score to his friend Behn: he wanted to be sure it was in safe hands. Behn began to transcribe the work for two pianos without Mahler‘s knowledge. Mahler was enthusiastic when, on returning from his travels, Behn surprised him with this transcription. He called it „excellent“ and in Behn‘s house they played through the first three movements together. The manuscript has only now been rediscovered by Behn‘s great-granddaughter, the pianist Christiane Behn. The Hamburg premiere was given in the small hall of the 'Laeiszhalle‘ on November 17th, 2008.