Mendelssohn, Felix: Violin Concerto in D Minor / Concerto for Violin and Piano

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the prodigious talent of Felix Mendelssohn with this captivating album, featuring two of his remarkable works composed during his teenage years. The Violin Concerto in D Minor, MWV O3, was penned when Mendelssohn was just thirteen, showcasing his precocious genius and dedicated to his friend and instructor, Eduard Rietz. This concerto is a testament to Mendelssohn's early mastery of form and expression, with its three movements—Allegro, Andante, and Allegro—each offering a unique exploration of the violin's capabilities.

Complementing this is the Double Concerto for Violin and Piano in D Minor, MWV O4, a larger-scale work that further demonstrates Mendelssohn's brilliance. This concerto, also composed in his youth, is a dynamic interplay between the violin and piano, conducted with elegance and virtuosity. The three movements—Allegro, Adagio, and Allegro molto—highlight Mendelssohn's ability to create intricate and engaging musical dialogues.

Recorded in Maastricht in November 1996 and released by Dynamic, this album captures the essence of Mendelssohn's compositions with the Castilla Y León Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Manuel Bragado-Darman. The performances are vivid and nuanced, bringing to life the intricate details and emotional depth of Mendelssohn's works. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Mendelssohn's oeuvre, this album offers a compelling journey through the early works of one of the most influential composers of the Romantic era.

1 januari 1996

1996 Dynamic

About Felix Mendelssohn

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.