Voktett Hannover: Tidings of Joy

Felix Mendelssohn's enchanting album, Voktett Hannover: Tidings of Joy, is a masterful collection of Christmas carols and sacred music, spanning five centuries. This captivating 49-minute album, released on 9 December 2022 by Rondeau Production, features 17 exquisite tracks, including works by renowned composers such as Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy, Gottfried, Heinrich Schütz, and Max Reger.

The eight talented singers of the Voktett Hannover bring to life a sophisticated a cappella selection of Christmas music, blending baroque masterpieces with spiritual and secular pieces, as well as modern arrangements of beloved Christmas classics. From the traditional "Es ist ein Ros entsprungen" and "In dulci jubilo" to the timeless "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" and "Jingle Bells", this album is a treasure trove of festive delights.

With its rich and varied repertoire, Voktett Hannover: Tidings of Joy is a must-listen for fans of chamber music, classical piano, and choral music. Felix Mendelssohn's album is a joyful celebration of the Christmas spirit, perfect for getting into the holiday mood. Available on various platforms, including Spotify, Amazon, Deezer, Qobuz, and TIDAL, this wonderful album can be enjoyed by music lovers everywhere.

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.