Gustav Mahler is one of the most performed classical composers in the Western world today, with nearly every orchestra across the Front Range regularly performing a Mahler symphony. However, this was not always the case. For over a century, his music remained obscure and was far from mainstream. When MahlerFest first began 37 years ago, its goal was to introduce audiences and musicians to the music of Mahler. Now, the organization strives to bring light to forgotten composers while celebrating the musical and cultural influence of Mahler.
“For any arts organization, a big challenge of growth is persuading people of your vision. Over the last 30+ years, MahlerFest has accomplished its goal of bringing Mahler to the forefront of classical composers being performed today,” said Artistic Director, Kenneth Woods. “He was such an important figure in such a pivotal moment in European history. With Mahler came the birth of modernism, poetry and visual arts. There are so many artists like Mahler waiting to be reclaimed from this time in history. When we are able to record and broadcast unknown pieces, we can continue to introduce new composers into the repertoire.”
In its 37th year, MahlerFest intends to capture a spirit of childlike wonder and whimsy. “The centerpiece being performed is Mahler’s ‘Fourth Symphony,’ which is all about being a child,” said Woods. “We tap back into the mythology of childhood with pieces inspired by fairytales like Hansel and Gretel. During this year’s festival, we are also hosting our first-ever rock concert titled ‘Electric Liederland.’ This fun event highlights the musical and spiritual parallels of Mahler with Jimi Hendrix, with several of Mahler’s pieces being performed on electric guitar, bass and drums.”
This year’s festival also explores the musical relationship between Mahler and Richard Strauss, who were both friends and rivals. Strauss’s ‘An Alpine Symphony’ will be performed, which was a tribute piece written after Mahler’s death. The symphony represents a musical metaphor for all the ambition and struggle it takes to achieve an artistic legacy.
For MahlerFest, the location of Boulder is essential to celebrating the life and music of the artist who drew so much inspiration from the mountains. “We host MahlerFest in Boulder for the same reasons many of us live here,” said Executive Director Ethan Hecht. “Musicians and audiences love coming to this city for its natural beauty. It’s a very similar setting to where Mahler composed much of his work. There is even a Colorado peak just northwest of Rocky Mountain National Park named Mount Mahler!”
For more information about MahlerFest and to get tickets to this year’s performances, please visit their website or follow them on social media @mahlerfestcolorado.