Lieder (Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen, Kindertotenlieder, Rückert-Lieder)

Gustav Mahler

Janet Baker / Sir John Barbirolli / Hallé Orchestra & New Philharmonia Orchestra

late 1960s

Top choice. One of the iconic solo vocal recordings. 'Kindertotenlieder' is poignant and dignified, 'Rückert-Lieder' is tender (especially 'Ich bin der Welt'). Just gorgeous, beautiful artistry, sound, and conducting.

Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau / Rudolf Kempe, Wilhelm Furtwängler / Berlin Philharmonic, Philharmonia Orchestra

1950s-1970s Compilation from different sessions (Kempe, Furtwängler, Barenboim).

A great compilation. Fischer-Dieskau was 'really well-suited to Mahler.' Features a deeply felt 'Kindertotenlieder' (1955), a tender 'Rückert-Lieder' on piano (1978), and a 'Lieder eines... Gesellen' with Furtwängler (1952).

Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau / Rafael Kubelík / Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra

1968

A highly recommended 'Lieder eines... Gesellen' coupled with Kubelík's First Symphony. This version is better recorded than the Furtwängler and is 'if anything, even more nuanced... very, very beautiful'.

Kathleen Ferrier / Bruno Walter / Vienna Philharmonic

1949 Mono recording.

Ferrier's 1949 'Kindertotenlieder' with Walter. Despite noisy recording, 'the artistry is the reason you listen to this.' Impeccable phrasing, exquisite control, and deeply heartfelt.

Kathleen Ferrier / Bruno Walter / Vienna Philharmonic

1952 Mono recording. Coupled with Das Lied von der Erde.

Three of the 'Rückert-Lieder' from the same 1952 sessions as 'Das Lied.' 'Um Mitternacht' and 'Ich bin der Welt' are 'unmissable'—beautifully phrased, sung, touching, and heartfelt.