Mahler 9th discussion questions

*Not* 'what is the best recording'

You point out a few things that am quite sure Mahler conciously included in his symphonies. These are so close in intervals and rhythm that it can not really be put down to just accidental useage. There is also the cello and bass ascending scale (dotted rhythm) in the 4th symphony that is straight out of the second. of course the famous trumpet call quote in the first movement of 4 that opens the 5th symphony. There are many more such points in Mahler so yours is not a crazy suggestion at all. Mahler is one of the most self-referencial of composers and it why in the case of Mahler (it does not work so well with most other composers although there are some lesser exceptions like Richard Strauss) that his works can be seen as near continuous progression of his thoughts.

I once put on Mahler's tuxedo, under circumstances which left no doubt that the thing was genuine. It fit me, although it was big in the shoulders. I urged its owner to contact the Metropolitan Museum, as the garment belonged to the ages. Although the experience did not noticeably improve my musicianship, I have spoken of Mahler in an authoritative tone ever since.

I always thought that the reference to the First was a deliberate glance back. I don't know about the Kindertotenlieder quote. I doubt it has much to do with Mahler's penmanship, though. His calligraphy is generally so good it's pretty.