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鈥檚 sorrow and sweetness into six heart-piercing songs. Mahler鈥檚 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鈥檚 a magnificent way for the 成人快手 Symphony Orchestra to end its season 鈥� 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鈥檚 experience to everything he conducts. Two of Britain鈥檚 finest singers join him in music that leaves few listeners unmoved: this should be very special indeed.