Fanny & Felix Mendelssohn: Sacred Music, Vol. 1

Immerse yourself in the sacred choral masterpieces of the Mendelssohn siblings with "Fanny & Felix Mendelssohn: Sacred Music, Vol. 1." This exquisite collection, set to release on July 11, 2025, under the Harmonia Mundi label, showcases the profound musical legacy of Felix Mendelssohn and his equally talented sister Fanny Hensel. The album spans 58 minutes of captivating chamber music and choral works, performed by the esteemed Berlin RIAS Chamber Choir, Kammerakademie Potsdam, and conducted by Justin Doyle.

The album opens with Felix Mendelssohn's monumental "Christus, Op. 97," a two-part oratorio that vividly narrates the life of Christ, from his birth to his passion. The work is a testament to Mendelssohn's ability to blend dramatic intensity with lyrical beauty, featuring stirring choruses, reflective recitatives, and a moving chorale. Following this, the album presents "Lobgesang" (Op. 52), a symphony-cantata that celebrates divine praise and thanksgiving, showcasing Mendelssohn's innovative fusion of symphonic and choral forms.

The album concludes with "Wie der Hirsch schreit nach frischem Wasser, Op. 42," a setting of Psalm 42 that exemplifies Mendelssohn's skill in conveying the deepest emotions through music. This work, like the others on the album, highlights the Mendelssohns' deep spiritual insight and their ability to translate it into music of enduring power and beauty.

"Fanny & Felix Mendelssohn: Sacred Music, Vol. 1" is not just a collection of sacred works; it is a journey through the spiritual and musical landscapes of two of the most influential composers of the 19th century. The album features the renowned soprano Christina Landshamer and the expert musicianship of the Berlin RIAS Chamber Choir and Kammerakademie Potsdam, all under the guidance of conductor Justin Doyle. This release is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Mendelssohns' music and a celebration of their significant contributions to the choral repertoire.