Mendelssohn 2 & Mendelssohn 2.1

Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Felix Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 2, Op. 52, "Lobgesang" (Hymn of Praise) with this exquisite recording by the Yakima Symphony Orchestra and Yakima Symphony Chorus. Celebrating their 50th anniversary, the orchestra and chorus deliver a powerful and inspiring performance of Mendelssohn's monumental choral symphony, a work that seamlessly blends symphonic and choral elements to create a profound musical experience.

Composed in 1840, "Lobgesang" is a unique and innovative work that reflects Mendelssohn's deep faith and his mastery of both symphonic and choral writing. The symphony is structured in a way that combines the traditional symphonic form with the structure of an oratorio, featuring a large chorus, soloists, and a full orchestra. The text, drawn from the Bible and other sources, explores themes of praise, thanksgiving, and redemption, making it a powerful and uplifting listening experience.

This album, released on Albany Records, features a stellar cast of soloists and the Yakima Symphony Chorus, who bring their considerable talents to bear on this challenging and rewarding work. The Yakima Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of their esteemed conductor, delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply moving.

The album also includes the bonus track "The Night is Departing," providing an added layer of depth and variety to the listening experience. With a duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, this recording offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 2, Op. 52, "Lobgesang."

Whether you are a longtime fan of Mendelssohn's music or a newcomer to his works, this recording of "Lobgesang" is sure to captivate and inspire. The Yakima Symphony Orchestra and Yakima Symphony Chorus bring their considerable talents to bear on this challenging and rewarding work, delivering a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply moving.

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.