For those not in the classical know, the New Orchestra of Washington's mission is to make music relevant to new generations of audiences through virtuosic performances that combine a diversity of genres with fresh interpretations of classic works.

Unconstrained by the structure or repertoire of traditional orchestras, NOW is both modern and sustainable, proving how orchestral and chamber music can not only survive but flourish in the 21st century.

Founded in 2012 by rising stars of the Washington area’s professional community, NOW embodies mutual respect and admiration for each others artistry and a common belief in the importance of revitalizing the role of music in our lives.

Their latest release, Mahler Symphony No.4 has been arranged for chamber orchestra by Klaus Simon, and features Linda Mabbs, soprano, and has Alejandro Hernandez-Valdez as conductor. And it is a pure delight to behold, trust me.

Mahler wrote his 4th Symphony in 1899 and 1900 and in the ensuing century much ink has been spilled over this remarkable work. Among its many noteworthy traits, the symphony takes almost all of its major motivic material from a song originally written in 1892, “Das himmlische Leben” (The Heavenly Life).

Motivic fragments are used throughout the first three movements, and the song is presented in its entirety in the fourth movement. This compositional strategy gives the piece a sense of structural unity and satisfying closure at the end.

1. Symphony No. 4 in G Major: I. Bedächtig, nicht eilen 16:39
2. Symphony No. 4 in G Major: II. In gemächlicher Bewegung, ohne Hast 9:37
3. Symphony No. 4 in G Major: III. Ruhevoll, poco adagio 20:47
4. Symphony No. 4 in G Major: IV. Sehr behaglich 9:56

In this chamber version of Mahler’s 4th Symphony by Klaus Simon, the individual ranges of the chamber orchestra players – single strings, winds, piano, accordion, and two percussionists – shine through. The result is a colorful, vivid, virtuosic, intimate Mahler 4 that highlights its chamber-like qualities without sacrificing the integrity of the piece. With this recording of Mahler’s 4th Symphony, the New Orchestra of Washington aims to fulfill one of its core missions: to shed new light on a familiar and beloved work.

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