For those not in the classical know, Myung-whun Chung is a South Korean pianist and conductor. A student of Olivier Messiaen, he is particularly known for his interpretations of the French composer's works.

In 2005, Chung became Principal Conductor of the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra. In April 2011, the Seoul Philharmonic became the first Asian orchestra to sign a major-label record deal, committing to make 10 CDs for Deutsche Grammophon.

Hence, Mahler, Symphony No. 5 is a recorded live CD (in 2014), and one om which the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra, with Chung conducting, most certainly fulfills the highest demands of audiences; for Mahler repertoires, in general, and others, of course.

1. Trauermarsch (In gemessenem Schritt. Streng. Wie ein Kondukt) [Mahler: Symphony No.5 in C sharp minor]
2. Stürmisch bewegt. Mit größter Vehemenz [Mahler: Symphony No.5 in C sharp minor]
3. Scherzo (Kräftig, nicht zu schnell) [Mahler: Symphony No.5 in C sharp minor]
4. Adagietto (Sehr langsam) [Mahler: Symphony No.5 in C sharp minor]
5. Rondo-Finale (Allegro) [Mahler: Symphony No.5 in C sharp minor]

Following the critically acclaimed Mahler No.9 from last year, this is the fourth Mahler recording of the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra with maestro Myung-Whun Chung (earlier releases No. 1, 2 and 9). In truth, Mahler, Symphony No. 5 is an outright stupendous performance. The Seoul Phil produces a rich sound, suited to Chung's Grand conception, and the vocal forces are magnificent.