This paper examines the integration of Tang Dynasty poetry and emotional expression in Gustav Mahler’s Das Lied von der Erde through an interdisciplinary lens, combining perspectives from musicology and comparative literature. The research explores the emotional resonance between Mahler’s music and the Tang poetry embedded within the symphony. Through analysis of the musical structure, melody, and harmonic development, this paper highlights how Mahler conveys the philosophical reflections on life, death, and nature found in the selected Tang poems. The study also investigates the issue of cultural translation in music, revealing the dynamic interplay between Eastern and Western cultural elements in artistic expression. The findings demonstrate Mahler’s successful synthesis of the profound philosophical ideas in Tang poetry with the emotional power of Western music, creating a complex web of emotional dialogue. This research offers new insights into understanding Das Lied von der Erde and contributes to the broader discourse on cross-cultural music studies and East-West cultural exchanges.

Authors:
Shou Yichen, Singapore Raffles Music College, Singapore

About the Presenter(s)
I am Shou Yichen from China, currently pursuing a Master's degree at the Raffles Institution of Music. I have been continuously exploring opportunities for public speaking.

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/yichen-shou-5625b5278

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