Stresa Festival | Closing Concert of the 65th Edition

The Teatro alla Scala hosts the closing concert of the 65th edition of the Stresa Festival, featuring the Originalklangproject, a research initiative through which the Gustav Mahler Academy is dedicated to rediscovering the authentic sound of Gustav Mahler’s works. The project stems from the need to reconstruct original performance practice through the study of historical sources, period instruments and the interpretative techniques of the time. Thanks to an extensive programme of research and restoration, a unique collection of instruments built between 1890 and 1910 has been created, comprising the same instruments as those used by Mahler, or instruments closely resembling them. The initiative makes it possible to explore in greater depth the relationship between the composer, his instruments and his orchestral language, offering a new interpretative perspective on his repertoire. The project also contributes to enhancing the history of musical reception and to reflecting on the concept of tradition. Students and professional musicians from all over the world collaborate within a context of international training and exchange. Conducted by Philipp von Steinaecker, the Mahler Academy Orchestra thus fosters a dialogue between past and future, bringing together research, artistic practice and innovation. Its aim is to train performers who are aware, curious and open to exchange, capable of preserving the authenticity of musical performance and of approaching the challenges of tradition with a critical spirit.