Unusual "split recording." Why were the recording sessions divided between 1964 and 1966? Why were there two orchestras? The reason is that Klemperer was not satisfied with the recording of the tenor singer initially hired. Therefore, in the 1964 recording session (Kingsway Hall), only the recording of Christa Ludwig (alto) was adopted. The tenor part was finally re-recorded in 1966, using the ideal Fritz Wunderlich, and only the tenor part was re-recorded (Abbey Road Studios). Meanwhile, the Philharmonia Orchestra was an exclusive orchestra of EMI, led by the big-shot producer Walter Legge, but in 1964, he suddenly declared the orchestra's dissolution. In response, the orchestra members formed the "New Philharmonia Orchestra" as a self-governing organization. Klemperer consistently supported the orchestra and became its first honorary conductor. And finally, in 1966, the tenor part of "Das Lied von der Erde" was recorded. To summarize, the recording of the 2nd, 4th, and 6th movements, sung by the alto, was in 1964, under the name of the Philharmonia Orchestra. The recording of the 1st, 3rd, and 5th movements, sung by the tenor, was in 1966, under the name of the New Philharmonia Orchestra. Despite the handicaps mentioned above, the quality of this recording is high, and it is highly acclaimed. In addition to Klemperer's characteristic slow tempo and approach filled with tension and overwhelming scale, one can feel a stern confrontation with nature and fate. Furthermore, the recording is a "philosophical" and "solitary" masterpiece among many recordings, featuring the youthful, transparent, and brilliant voice of Wunderlich at the peak of his career, who died suddenly that year, and Ludwig's dignified and deeply introspective expression. In 1977, the New Philharmonia Orchestra revived the name of the original Philharmonia Orchestra and continues to this day. Conducted by Otto Klemperer Philharmonia Orchestra New Philharmonia Orchestra Mahler Das Lied von der Erde Christa Ludwig (mezzo-soprano) Fritz Wunderlich (tenor) Recording dates: 1964, 1966 Recording locations: London, Kingsway Hall, Abbey Road Studio No. 1 EMI domestic edition (manufactured in 1996)