I’m starting my June challenge two days early to write about things in my life, big and small, that nourish me and help keep me grounded. I am motivated to start today because Classical California (KUSC) is playing Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, the Resurrection Symphony, in its entirety on the radio tonight, and it is one of my favorites.

Ray and I were lucky enough to hear this symphony performed in 2012 at Disney Hall, with Gustavo Dudamel conducting and the LA Master Chorale singing. Dudamel, who has a special love for Mahler’s work, brought this music vividly to life. Sadly for Los Angeles, Dudamel is ending his 17-year tenure as the Music and Artistic Director of the LA Phil and moving to the New York Philharmonic. However, this is a natural next step in his career, and Los Angeles will welcome Daniel Harding as its new music director beginning in 2027.

Why does this nourish me? Because this symphony begins with one man’s question: What comes after death? It is a question filled with fear and doubt. Through the movements, his understanding deepens, and he arrives at a moment when he accepts that he came from God and will return to God. The final movement reaches its climax when God comes into view, not full of judgment but rather emanating profound, peaceful love. This is a story that begins with a funeral and ends with rebirth, starts with darkness and ends with light. What could be more uplifting?

Why does this ground me? A belief that love is the dominant force in the universe brings me great peace. It also reminds me to hold on to hope when there seems to be more darkness than light.

And there is something deeply inspiring about the passion Mahler brings to this piece, which feels as alive now as it did when it was first performed in 1901. Beauty, goodness, and passion transcend time and space. Seeing Gustavo Dudamel and these musicians filled with their own passion gives me hope for all things healing in this world.

I am including a site where you can learn more about the Resurrection Symphony:

https://gustavmahler.com/symphonies/mahler-symphony-2.html