Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Felix Mendelssohn with the album "Mendelssohn: Symphonies No. 1 & 5." Released on August 1, 2013, under the Musikproduktion Dabringhaus und Grimm label, this album is a treasure trove of classical masterpieces that showcase Mendelssohn's genius and the prowess of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Edward Gardner.
The album features two of Mendelssohn's most celebrated symphonies: Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 11, and Symphony No. 5 in D Major, Op. 107, also known as the "Reformation" Symphony. The former, composed when Mendelssohn was just a teenager, reveals his early mastery of the symphonic form, while the latter, completed in 1832, is a powerful and uplifting work that commemorates the 300th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation.
Each symphony is divided into four movements, offering a rich tapestry of musical expression. From the fiery opening of Symphony No. 1's "Allegro di molto" to the triumphant finale of Symphony No. 5's "Choral: Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott," the album is a journey through a range of emotions and musical textures. The inclusion of a choir in the final movement of Symphony No. 5 adds a dramatic and spiritual dimension to the work.
With a total duration of 58 minutes, this album is a compact yet comprehensive exploration of Mendelssohn's symphonic output. The recording quality is excellent, capturing the nuances of the orchestra's performance and the depth of Mendelssohn's compositions. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a rewarding listen that highlights the enduring appeal of Mendelssohn's music.
Vinylscout