Fanny & Felix Mendelssohn: Sacred Music, Vol. 1

Immerse yourself in the sacred musical heritage of the Mendelssohn siblings with "Fanny & Felix Mendelssohn: Sacred Music, Vol. 1," a captivating collection of choral and orchestral works set to be released on July 11, 2025, by harmonia mundi. This album showcases the profound spiritual and musical depth of Felix Mendelssohn, a composer who, much like Bach and Handel before him, masterfully blends sacred texts with sublime melodies.

The album opens with "Christus, Op. 97," a monumental oratorio that narrates the life of Christ, from his birth to his passion. This work is a testament to Mendelssohn's ability to evoke powerful emotions and spiritual contemplation through music. The choral and solo passages are interwoven with orchestral accompaniments, creating a rich tapestry of sound that resonates with both grandeur and intimacy.

Following "Christus," the album presents "Lobgesang" (Op. 52), a cantata that celebrates divine praise and thanksgiving. This piece is notable for its lyrical beauty and the skillful interplay between the chorus and soloists. The final work on the album is "Wie der Hirsch schreit nach frischem Wasser, Op. 42," a setting of Psalm 42 that explores themes of longing and spiritual yearning.

Performed by the esteemed RIAS Kammerchor and Kammerakademie Potsdam, under the direction of Justin Doyle, this album promises a transcendent listening experience. The ensemble's precise articulation and expressive phrasing bring Mendelssohn's sacred music to life, offering listeners a profound connection to the spiritual and artistic legacy of the Mendelssohn siblings.

With a duration of 58 minutes, this album is a compact yet comprehensive introduction to the sacred works of Felix Mendelssohn. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Fanny & Felix Mendelssohn: Sacred Music, Vol. 1" is sure to enrich your musical journey.

Felix Mendelssohn, born into a wealthy banking family in Hamburg in 1809, was a prodigious talent whose influence on the Romantic period is immeasurable. A child prodigy, Mendelssohn excelled not only in music but also in painting, poetry, athletics, and linguistics. His compositions, which include symphonies, concertos, and chamber music, are renowned for their optimism and life-enhancing qualities, earning him the title of one of the 'Sunshine Composers.'

Mendelssohn's repertoire is vast and varied, with standout works including the enchanting overture and incidental music for "A Midsummer Night's Dream," the evocative "Italian" and "Scottish" Symphonies, and the beloved oratorios "St. Paul" and "Elijah." His "Songs Without Words" for solo piano are particularly celebrated, offering a glimpse into his deep emotional range. Beyond his compositions, Mendelssohn was also an accomplished artist, capturing scenes from his travels through England and Scotland in sketches.

Despite his untimely death at the age of 38 in 1847, Mendelssohn's legacy endures, celebrated for his contributions to classical music and his enduring influence on the Romantic era. His music continues to inspire and uplift, a testament to his enduring genius.