Mahler 9th Score Question

[Archaic Torso of Apollo]

A small nagging issue, maybe somebody can help:

In some analyses I've read of this symphony, reference is made to a "disruptive modulatory sequence" that first appears in the 2nd movement, and supposedly permeates the music from then on. I've heard this symphony more times than I can count, but I still can't identify exactly what they're talking about.

I would be grateful if someone could point this out, with reference to the score if possible.

[jochanaan]

The sequence is a circle of major 3rds, e.g. D, Bb, Gb, D.  It first appears clearly at the Trio's return in the 2nd movement (A tempo II,22 measures before rehearsal #22).  By the end of the circle, the tonality is so completely obscured it takes about ten measures to get back to whatever key Mahler wanted to be in at that moment.

[Archaic Torso of Apollo]

Wow, somebody actually answered one of my questions. Thanks!  0:)

[jochanaan]

You're welcome.

[Joe Barron]

I learn so much on these threads ...