Patrick Day

GUSTAV MAHLER’S 4TH SYMPHONY


Tuesday, October 6th, 2015

GUSTAV MAHLER’S 4TH SYMPHONY

Last week, I heard the Minnesota Orchestra play Mahler’s Symphony No. 4 in G major. Halfway through, I was visited with a metaphor.

Osmo Vanska conducted the orchestra and a vocalist sang “Life in Heaven” in the third movement. As the composition captured my imagination, I saw Jesus conducting God’s music and directing those in the orchestra to play it. Violinists were given one score of music to play. Other sections had their own scores: cellos, flutes, oboes, drums, harps, and the rest. All in their own way were glorifying God.

And I thought, “what musical instrument am I and what is my part to play in God’s composition?” I think I relate best to the cello because it has a sorrowful, soulful sound, yet is pleasing to the ear and heart. How about you? I invite you to leave a comment.

2 Responses to “GUSTAV MAHLER’S 4TH SYMPHONY”

  1. Ginger Says:

    I believe I would be a French Horn. Tones are deep and mellow. I believe my thoughts are deep and usually mellow. The French Horn is easy on the ears. I believe my presence and conversation is easy on the those I’m visiting.

  2. melody33 Says:

    I agree with you. You’d make a great French Horn for the reasons you have given. That’s you.

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