Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy: A Midsummer Night's Dream, Die erste Walpurgisnacht

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Felix Mendelssohn with this captivating album, featuring two of his most celebrated works: "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and "Die erste Walpurgisnacht." This collection, released in 2018 under the Praga Digitals label, offers a rich tapestry of chamber music, classical compositions, and choral masterpieces that showcase Mendelssohn's unparalleled genius.

"A Midsummer Night's Dream," Op. 61, is a delightful suite of incidental music composed for Shakespeare's beloved play. The album begins with the iconic Overture, followed by a series of lively and evocative movements that bring the whimsical world of fairies, lovers, and magical mischief to life. Highlights include the playful "Scherzo," the graceful "Wedding March," and the dramatic "Funeral March."

Complementing this is "Die erste Walpurgisnacht," Op. 60, a dramatic cantata that tells the story of a group of pagans celebrating the arrival of spring. This work is a stunning display of Mendelssohn's ability to blend vocal and orchestral elements, creating a rich and immersive musical experience. The cantata opens with a fiery "Overture" and includes a variety of moods and tempos, from the lively "Es lacht der Mai" to the solemn "Andante maestoso."

The album also includes the lesser-known but equally beautiful "Infelice! Ah ritorna, età felice," Op. 94, a romantic song that adds a touch of intimacy to the collection. With a total duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Mendelssohn's musical prowess, performed by the renowned Chor und Orchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks under the direction of Rafael Kubelik.

Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Mendelssohn's work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. The intricate compositions and powerful performances make it a standout addition to any music collection.

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.