Mahler Symphony No. 4

Program: Adams The Chairman Dances Barber Knoxville: Summer of 1915 Mahler Symphony No. 4 Emily Birsan Soprano Andrew Constantine Conductor Reading Symphony Orchestra Mahler—at his most luminous. Joy, innocence, wonder… and a final movement that floats straight into the soul. This is Mahler for the heart. Mahler Gustav Mahler’s is a titan of the symphonic world. His Symphony No. 4 is one of his most approachable and lyrical works, blending moments of childlike innocence with profound reflection. Concluding with a radiant soprano solo depicting a child’s vision of heaven, the symphony offers a journey from earthly life to serene transcendence. Link to Program notes coming soon ARTIST HIGHLIGHT Emily Birsan, soprano Soprano Emily Birsan, described as “luminous” (The Guardian), “radiant” (London Telegraph), and”ravishing” (Opera Magazine), performs operatic and concert repertoire in America and abroad. In the 2026-2027 season, she will premiere a new work with Madison Opera “Everlasting Faint”, perform with Reading Symphony, Symphony San Jose, and perform the title role in Hasse’s La Semele with Haymarket Opera. Birsan’s previous operatic performances include leading roles at Lyric Opera of Chicago, Welsh National Opera, the Edinburgh International Festival, and Boston Lyric Opera, while she has given concert performances at Carnegie Hall and the Ravinia Festival, and with the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Grant ParkSymphony Orchestra, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra,and the Chicago Philharmonic. With ChandosRecords, she has recorded Elgar’s oratorio The Saga of St. Olaf with the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and Sir Andrew Davis. Notably, Birsan performed Violetta in La traviata at Lyric Opera of Chicago. Listen PARKING FREE Parking at the DoubleTree Get free parking and round-trip shuttle to the concert when you enjoy modern comfort food in a relaxed urban setting at Cheers Bistro at the DoubleTree. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, your pre-concert dining experience will be one to remember! Book Reservations | Visit Website | Call (484) 577-8633 Make It A Weekend! Make a weekend out of your RSO experience. Book a room at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Reading and enjoy the best perks of Reading. Book Your Room | Call (610) 375-8000