The epic Symphony No. 2 brought Gustav Mahler and Otto Klemperer together in 1905, when the 20-year-old conductor took charge of the off-stage band for a performance in Berlin. Mahler, impressed, subsequently recommanded him for appointments in Prague and Hamburg. In this recording Klemperer rewards the composer's faith with an interpretation of granite-like strenght, drawing magnificent performances from orchestra, chorus and soloists.