Toronto classical music lovers will have two opportunities to experience Mahler symphonies in February 2026, as performed by two top tier orchestras. The Budapest Festival Orchestra will perform the composer’s Symphony No. 3, while the Toronto Symphony Orchestra will play his Symphony No. 9.
It’s an unprecedented embarrassment of riches.
Mahler’s Symphony No. 3 in D minor was completed in 1896. At six movements, it’s his longest composition, and the longest in the traditional orchestra repertoire. At that, he’d actually conceived of a seventh movement, which eventually became the las movement in his Symphony No. 4.
He wrote his Symphony No. 9, his last completed symphony, several years later in 1908 and 1909. Mahler had already been diagnosed with a fatal heart ailment, and would not live long enough to see the premiere in 1912.
To prepare for the experience, the Toronto Mahler Society has music lovers covered. They’ll be presenting a special afternoon talk that will dive into both Symphony No. 3 and No. 9 on February 7. You’ll have the chance to learn more about these epic orchestral works, as well as connect with fellow Mahler lovers. Anyone is welcome to the talk; no prior knowledge is required.
The Toronto Mahler Society was established in September 2003 by two music lovers. It’s expanded in the years since then due to the efforts of dedicated volunteers and members.
The Details
Prior registration is required, and spots are limited.
Meeting: Introducing Mahler Symphony No. 3 and No. 9
- 📅 Date: Saturday, February 7th
- ⏰ Time: 2 to 4 p.m.
- 📍 Location: Toronto Public Library — Northern District Branch, Main Floor Meeting Room (40 Orchard View Blvd, right at Yonge & Eglinton TTC)
- 💰 Fee: $5 (includes light refreshments)
You can reply to their Facebook event [HERE] or message the organization through their FB page to attend.
Mahler in Toronto
Here are the details and dates for the Mahler performances by the Budapest Festival Orchestra and Toronto Symphony Orchestra.
Budapest Festival Orchestra conducted by Iván Fischer with Gerhild Romberger, mezzo-soprano, the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, and the Toronto Children’s Chorus
The Budapest Festival Orchestra, founded by conductor Iván Fischer in 1983, is consistently rated among the world’s top orchestras. The orchestra is renowned for its interpretation of the music of Mahler. The BFO has won two Gramophone Awards, and was nominated for a GRAMMY for their recording of Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 in 2013. Its 2014 recording of Mahler’s No. 5 received an the Diapason d’Or.
Mahler Symphony No. 3
Feb 12 at Koerner Hall
- Find show details and tickets [HERE].
Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Gustavo Gimeno, conductor
The Toronto Symphony Orchestra has performed several of Mahler’s symphonies over the last several years, including his Symphony No. 5 in 2015 with Jukka-Pekka Saraste, and his Symphony No. 4 in 2025.
Mahler Symphony No. 9
Feb 19, 21 & 22 at Roy Thomson Hall
- Find show details and tickets [HERE].
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