The first and most straightforward of Mahler’s symphonies has been often performed and recorded. No wonder—so long as the conductor is committed and the orchestra inspired, there are few more deftly orchestrated and evocative works in symphonic literature. And here is a performance to help even those familiar with Mahler’s First fall in love with it all over again. Jaap van Zweden and the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra hold attention from the very start, as Mahler’s widespread yet precisely defined (both by score and by orchestra) string texture conjures cold light piercing through the forest at dawn. This fresh and far-from-routine performance convincingly encompasses both the opening movement’s heart-warming sense of wellbeing as well as its brief yet powerful moments of surging threat. The Seoul players characterise wonderfully the second movement’s contrasts between the gritty string playing in the barn dance-style scherzo and its sentimental trio central section. With the slow third movement, the huntsman’s funeral march (to a minor-key version of the children’s song Frère Jacques) is played straight, even soothingly like a lullaby, which gives more point to the more earthy and satirical tone of the klezmer-style music that follows. The finale’s ferocious start comes, as always, as something of a shock. Yet van Zweden and his players convincingly demonstrate how the finale has emerged from themes from the previous movements, steering it through to its consoling central theme, and onwards to its triumphant end. In all, this recording is a superb showcase for the entire orchestra, showing the exceptional quality and character of its string and brass sections. Inside the Album Booklet A helpful programme note includes pertinent biographical notes about the composer as well as a guide to the Symphony. There’s also a biographical note on Jaap van Zweden and colour photos of the conductor in action with the Seoul Philharmonic. Album booklets are available in the latest version of Apple Music Classical, which you can download and enjoy as part of your Apple Music subscription. To access booklets, tap on the book icon at the top of your screen.