The Pacific Symphony is set to present Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 on Oct. 1-3, 2026.

Under the direction of Artistic & Music Director Alexander Shelley, the performance will begin his inaugural season with one of the most celebrated masterpieces in the orchestral repertoire.

Shelley will soloists soprano Miah Persson, and mezzo-soprano Dame Sarah Connolly.

In a statement Shelley said, “In our first set of Classical concerts, we present to you one of the most extraordinary works of art in human history. Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 contains towering power, hushed mystery, soaring voices and a finale that seems to span the human existence. This is a work that speaks to the rebirth of self through an ideal. It’s a meaningful reflection of the values that guided the Declaration of Independence and an inspiration for us living today.” 

Mahler completed his “Resurrection” Symphony in 1894 after many years of consideration, precision, and care. The work is his first symphony to unite orchestra and chorus and was inspired by a poem on resurrection by Friedrich Gottlieb Klopstock.