Mendelssohn: Music for Cello and Piano

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Felix Mendelssohn with "Mendelssohn: Music for Cello and Piano," a captivating collection of chamber music released on October 12, 2007, by AVIE Records. This album is a testament to Mendelssohn's genius, featuring a blend of sonatas, variations, and songs without words, all exquisitely arranged for cello and piano.

The album opens with the Variations concertantes, Op. 17, showcasing Mendelssohn's intricate compositional skills. It continues with a selection of his famous "Lieder ohne Worte" (Songs without Words), arranged for cello and piano by Alfredo Piatti, including the delightful "Frühlingslied" (Spring Song), the spirited "Jägerlied" (Hunter's Song), and the serene "Venetianisches Gondellied" (Venetian Gondola Song).

The heart of the album lies in the two sonatas: the Sonata No. 1 in B Flat Major, Op. 45, and the Sonata No. 2 in D Major, Op. 58. These works are a journey through a range of emotions and musical expressions, from the lively and energetic to the deeply introspective and serene.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Mendelssohn's music for cello and piano. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

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.

Mendelssohn: Music for Cello and Piano

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About Felix Mendelssohn

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