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When Gustav Mahler confronted eternity, he turned to the poetry of classical China. Das Lied von der Erde (The Song of the Earth) is the result: a symphony that distils every last drop of life’s sorrow and sweetness into six heart-piercing songs. Mahler’s Viennese contemporary Schreker, meanwhile, went for broke: pouring white-hot sensuality and Klimt-like colours into a chamber symphony that positively burst with outsize emotions.

In other words, it’s a magnificent way for the ´óÏó´«Ã½ Symphony Orchestra to end its season – and the most perfect showcase imaginable for guest conductor Sir Mark Elder. Sir Mark is a legend among British musicians; an artist of undimmed energy and insight who brings a lifetime’s experience to everything he conducts. Two of Britain’s finest singers join him in music that leaves few listeners unmoved: this should be very special indeed.