Mendelssohn: Symphonies 1-5

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Felix Mendelssohn with the release of "Mendelssohn: Symphonies 1-5," a live recording that showcases the composer's genius across five symphonies. This album, released on Deutsche Grammophon in 2017, brings together the Chamber Orchestra of Europe and the RIAS Kammerchor under the baton of Yannick Nézet-Séguin, delivering a performance that is both powerful and nuanced.

Spanning a total of 3 hours and 20 minutes, this collection includes Mendelssohn's complete symphonies, from the dramatic intensity of the Symphony No. 1 in C Minor to the triumphant chorale of the Symphony No. 5 in D Minor, known as the "Reformation." Each symphony is a journey in itself, blending chamber music, classical orchestration, and choral mastery.

The album begins with the Symphony No. 1, a work that reveals Mendelssohn's early prowess, followed by the Symphony No. 2, "Hymn of Praise," a choral masterpiece that combines orchestral brilliance with vocal grandeur. The Symphony No. 3, "Scottish," evokes the rugged beauty of Scotland, while the Symphony No. 4, "Italian," captures the vibrancy and charm of Italy. The final symphony, No. 5, is a stirring tribute to the Protestant Reformation, culminating in the famous chorale "Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott."

Recorded over multiple sessions in Berlin's Teldex Studio and the Nikolaisaal, this live album captures the energy and precision of the performances, offering listeners a chance to experience Mendelssohn's symphonies in all their glory. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to Mendelssohn's music, this album is a testament to the enduring power of his compositions and the skill of the performers who bring them to life.