Completed in 1904, Mahler's
Symphony No 6 is one of the most ambitious orchestral works of the first years of the century. Tragic in mood, it culminates with a huge finale, complete with sombre hammer blows. The concert opens with a characteristically evocative work by Takemitsu for guitar and orchestra. Paul Guinery introduces a performance given last Saturday at the Royal Festival Hall, London. Julian Bream (guitar), London Philharmonic, conductor Christoph Eschenbach Takemitsu To the Edge of Dream Mahler Symphony No 6