Mahler had effected some editing on Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)‘s Symphony No. 9 and was violently attacked by the press for this “sacrilege”. He therefore decided to give an extraordinary repeat performance (22-02-1900) of the symphony, for which he wrote an explanation of his motives. His “defense” was distributed gratis at the second performance in which the overture was not included. The controversy would only worsen.

Transcription Beethoven Symphony No. 9.

Transcription Beethoven Symphony No. 9.

Transcription Beethoven Symphony No. 9, two-page draft of Mahler’s note justifying his Retouching to Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. Written after the reviews of the first performance (18-02-1900) for distribution at the second (22-02-1900).

Transcription Beethoven Symphony No. 9, two-page draft of Mahler’s note justifying his Retouchen to Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. Written after the reviews of the first performance (18-02-1900) for distribution at the second (22-02-1900).

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