Jurowski and the London Philharmonic Orchestra Present Barshai's Completion of Mahler's Tenth Symphony

On January 24, 2026, conductor Vladimir Jurowski led the London Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) in a performance of Gustav Mahler's Tenth Symphony, completed by Russian conductor Rudolf Barshai. This rendition, presented at the Royal Festival Hall in London, showcased Barshai's audacious orchestration, which diverges significantly from the more restrained version by British musicologist Deryck Cooke.

Jurowski presents a cogent argument for Rudolf Barshai’s completion of Mahler’s Tenth Symphony – Seen and Heard International

Gustav Mahler began composing his Tenth Symphony in 1910, but he passed away in 1911 before completing it. The first movement, a lengthy Adagio, is often performed independently and is considered one of Mahler's finest. The remaining movements exist as sketches, reflecting Mahler's personal turmoil, particularly regarding his wife's infidelity. Cooke's version, created in the 1960s, aimed to preserve Mahler's original intent with minimal additions, while Barshai's interpretation introduces a fuller orchestral texture and vibrant instrumentation.

Jurowski presents a cogent argument for Rudolf Barshai’s completion of Mahler’s Tenth Symphony – Seen and Heard International

Jurowski's interpretation of Barshai's completion emphasizes a rich sound palette, incorporating diverse instruments such as guitars, additional tubas, and an expanded percussion section. Critics noted that while Jurowski's approach brought out the emotional depth of Mahler's work, it also led to a more congested sound in certain movements, particularly the scherzos. Some reviewers expressed concern that Barshai's orchestration overshadowed Mahler's original intent, arguing that Cooke's version better captured the essence of the symphony.

Jurowski presents a cogent argument for Rudolf Barshai’s completion of Mahler’s Tenth Symphony – Seen and Heard International

The performance received a mixed response from critics and audiences alike. While many praised the LPO's outstanding musicianship and Jurowski's dynamic conducting, others found Barshai's version lacking in subtlety. One critic remarked on the "too-constant use of mass brass," suggesting that it detracted from the emotional impact of the finale. Despite these critiques, the audience's enthusiastic applause indicated a strong appreciation for the performance.

Mahler's Tenth Symphony, LPO, Jurowski, RFH review - overscoring kills a rare completion

Critics are divided on the effectiveness of Barshai's completion. Some argue that Jurowski's interpretation successfully bridges Mahler's style with influences from Shostakovich and Britten, while others contend that the orchestration detracts from the symphony's original character. This divergence highlights the ongoing debate within the classical music community regarding the best approach to Mahler's unfinished work.

Jurowski presents a cogent argument for Rudolf Barshai’s completion of Mahler’s Tenth Symphony – Seen and Heard International

• “brings Mahler more into the proximity of Shostakovich and perhaps Britten” — Vladimir Jurowski, Conductor

Mahler's Tenth Symphony, LPO, Jurowski, RFH review - overscoring kills a rare completion

Jurowski's performance of Barshai's completion of Mahler's Tenth Symphony at the Royal Festival Hall represents a significant moment in the ongoing exploration of Mahler's legacy. While opinions on the effectiveness of Barshai's orchestration vary, the event underscores the enduring relevance of Mahler's music and the diverse interpretations it inspires.

Jurowski presents a cogent argument for Rudolf Barshai’s completion of Mahler’s Tenth Symphony – Seen and Heard International