Performer: New Zealand Symphony Orchestra

The unexpected grounding of Airbus A320s across the globe has musical consequences in Auckland, but Joyce DiDonato’s Berlioz saves the day. 

Heard side by side, these two Stabat Maters, neither of which is a typical example of its kind, make for an evening of striking contrasts under conductor Valentina Peleggi. 

A key feature of New’s Mahler is the ability to keep everything cohesive across the long span of the works as witnessed in this account of the Sixth Symphony.