MahlerFest 39

May 13 - 17, 2026

Reinvention:

Channeling Change into Creativity

When a great artist begins a new chapter in their creative life, it is as if they are reinventing the future. Not just theirs, but ours.

Many artists have experienced new beginnings: Franz Joseph Haydn ended his long tenure in Esterhazy (northern Hungary) and started a new life in London; The Who’s Pete Townshend’s creative frustration and religious awakening changed the course of rock music with Tommy. Unrequited love spurred Leoš Janáček to his peak of originality; and Edward Elgar returned to composition after the First World War.

Gustav Mahler started over several times as a conductor, a composer, and a man. He began anew with his Fifth Symphony. Later, after his long tenure at the Vienna State Opera, he sought out new musical and professional challenges in New York prior to composing the Ninth Symphony, the focal point of this year's festival.

MahlerFest 39 explores how a new beginning stemming from frustration, pain, or turmoil can shape an artist’s work.

Tickets on sale in early 2026

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THU 14

May 14, 2026 @ 03:30 PM

Songs of Parents & Children

Canyon Theater at the Boulder Public Library, 1000 Canyon Avenue, Boulder CO

Andrew Konopak and Jennifer Hayghe perfom Mahler's Kindertotenlieder. Hayghe is joined by Daniel Silver and Parry Karp for the Clarinet Trio by Zemlinsky

Songs of Parents & Children
THU 14

May 14, 2026 @ 07:30 PM

The Mahlers in New York

Canyon Theater at the Boulder Public Library, 1000 Canyon Avenue, Boulder CO

Thursday, May 14, 7:30 PM - FREECanyon Theater at the Boulder Public Library, 1001 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder At the age of 47, Mahler started over in New York City, first conducting the Metropolitan Opera and then the New York Philharmonic...

The Mahlers in New York
FRI 16

May 16, 2025 @ 10:00 AM

Mahler: Ideas & Insights

eTown Hall, 1535 Spruce Street, Boulder

Mahler Scholars and MahlerFest Guest Artists offer talks on topics related to this season's theme, "Reinvention: Channeling Change into Creativity."

Mahler: Ideas & Insights

“It is hard not to be moved by a stirring performance of this majestic symphony, which is just what Maestro Woods and his assembled musicians deliver.”

- Karl Nehring, Classical Candor

“The Colorado MahlerFest Orchestra punches appreciably above its weight in music.”

- Richard Whitehouse, Arcana.fm

Your festival questions, answered

What Is Mahlerfest?

An annual Colorado festival celebrating composer Gustav Mahler's music and legacy.

How Do I Buy Tickets?

Tickets are available online by clicking the "Buy Tickets" button on our website.

Are There Special Events?

Yes—join us for open rehearsals, dinners, masterclasses, and community gatherings.

Is MahlerFest suitable for someone new to classical music?

Absolutely. MahlerFest is a welcoming space for everyone—from seasoned symphony-goers to first-time attendees.

What makes MahlerFest unique?

MahlerFest is one of only a few festivals worldwide dedicated entirely to the music and legacy of Gustav Mahler. Each year, we present rarely performed works, feature leading Mahler scholars, and offer immersive experiences that bring his music to life in new ways.