Live Mahler rocks my socks

Last night I went to see one of my friends perform with the symphony of the Chicago College of Performing Arts from Roosevelt University. Yay for a free concert at Orchestra Hall! The highlight of the performance was Mahler's 1st Symphony and, I must say, was very impressed. I had never heard this particular symphony live before and the amount of power behind it is ridiculous. No recording can do it justice. The brass are especially resounding, particularly the French horns in the final movement (and the conductor stood them! Whoo!). It's loud, it's passionate, with never a dull moment. The slower third movement is the most different, and is absolutely beautiful. The orchestra performed it extremely well, and I would definitely go to see them again. Go if you have the chance!