A Journey Through Life and Sound: NMPhil Presents Mahler’s Symphony No. 3

The New Mexico Philharmonic will present their latest performance, Mahler’s Symphony No. 3, on May 31st.

On Saturday, May 31st, the stage of Popejoy Hall will transform into a gateway to the cosmos as the New Mexico Philharmonic (NMPhil) presents one of classical music’s most profound masterpieces—Mahler’s Symphony No. 3.

Recognized as the longest symphony in the standard repertoire, Mahler’s Third is a monumental work that spans six movements and explores themes of nature, humanity, and divine love. Drawing inspiration from the Austrian Alps and the writings of Nietzsche, Gustav Mahler created a soundscape that is at once grand and intimate—deeply spiritual yet unmistakably human.

“This symphony is a true journey through existence,” says Roberto Minczuk, NMPhil’s Music Director and GRAMMY® Award-winning conductor. “Mahler invites us to experience the awakening of nature, the innocence of childhood, the soul’s searching, and ultimately, a triumph of love.”

Minczuk, who has led renowned orchestras around the world—from São Paulo to Tokyo and New York—will conduct the performance. Under his baton, the NMPhil will be joined by an all-star lineup of guest artists and community collaborators.

Among them is Lilia Istratii, the internationally celebrated Moldavian mezzo-soprano hailed for her powerful voice and emotive depth. Istratii, who received Moldova’s prestigious “Maria Bieșu” Excellence Award in 2023, brings rich vocal color to the symphony’s fourth movement, which features a haunting solo based on Nietzsche’s Also sprach Zarathustra.

“It’s an honor to share this music with Albuquerque,” Istratii shares. “Mahler’s work demands not just vocal technique but emotional openness. It’s truly unlike anything else in the repertoire.”

Also joining the performance are Quintessence: A Community of Singers Women’s Chorus and The Youth Chorus Coalition of Albuquerque. For both groups, this concert represents a meaningful artistic milestone.

“Performing Mahler’s Third is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” says Kristen Loree, Artistic Director of Quintessence. “The music challenges us and brings us together as artists and as a community.”

The Youth Chorus Coalition, composed of singers aged 8–14 from across the Albuquerque metro, brings a joyful innocence to the symphony’s fifth movement. Their participation underscores the NMPhil’s dedication to music education and youth engagement.

As the NMPhil continues its mission to enrich New Mexico through music, Mahler’s Symphony No. 3 stands as a powerful testament to the orchestra’s artistic ambition and community spirit. To learn more about the concert and upcoming events, visit nmphil.org.