Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Felix Mendelssohn's compositions with the album "Mendelssohn: Die erste Walpurgisnacht." This collection, released on June 1, 2015, under the Brilliant Classics label, offers a diverse array of chamber music, classical, and choral works that showcase Mendelssohn's mastery and versatility.
The album centers around the cantata "Die erste Walpurgisnacht, Op. 60," a dramatic and evocative piece that tells the story of German pagans celebrating the arrival of spring. The cantata is divided into several movements, each with its own distinct character and mood, from the fiery "Allegro con fuoco" to the majestic "Andante maestoso." The choral and orchestral arrangements are particularly noteworthy, highlighting Mendelssohn's ability to blend voices and instruments in a way that is both powerful and nuanced.
In addition to the cantata, the album features several other notable works by Mendelssohn. "Infelice in B-Flat Major, Op. 94," is a poignant and introspective piece for piano, showcasing Mendelssohn's ability to convey deep emotion through his music. The "Trumpet Overture in C Major, Op. 101," is a lively and energetic piece that is sure to delight listeners with its bold and brassy sound. "Das Märchen von der schönen Melusine, Op. 32," is a fairy tale-inspired work that features a mix of vocal and instrumental elements, creating a sense of whimsy and wonder. Finally, "Meeresstille und glückliche Fahrt, Op. 27," is a serene and contemplative piece that evokes the calm and beauty of the sea.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 10 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive overview of Mendelssohn's musical genius. Whether you are a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire you. So sit back, relax, and let the music of Felix Mendelssohn transport you to another time and place.
2014 Brilliant Classics2015 Brilliant Classics
Tracks
Die erste Walpurgisnacht, Op. 60, Ouvertüre: I. Das schlechte Wetter (Allegro con fuoco)Felix Mendelssohn, MDR Leipzig Radio Chorus, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur
Die erste Walpurgisnacht, Op. 60, Ouvertüre: II. Der Übergang zum Frühling (Allegro vivace non troppo)Felix Mendelssohn, MDR Leipzig Radio Chorus, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur
Die erste Walpurgisnacht, Op. 60: I. Es lacht der Mai (Allegro vivace non troppo) - a DruidFelix Mendelssohn, MDR Leipzig Radio Chorus, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur, Eberhard Büchner
Die erste Walpurgisnacht, Op. 60: II. Könnt ihr so verwegen handeln (Allegretto non troppo)Felix Mendelssohn, MDR Leipzig Radio Chorus, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur, Annelies Burmeister
Die erste Walpurgisnacht, Op. 60: III. Wer Opfer heut' zu bringen scheut (Andandte maestoso)Felix Mendelssohn, MDR Leipzig Radio Chorus, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur, Siegfried Lorenz
Die erste Walpurgisnacht, Op. 60: IV. Verteilt euch, wack're Männer, hier (Allegro leggiero)Felix Mendelssohn, MDR Leipzig Radio Chorus, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur
Die erste Walpurgisnacht, Op. 60: V. Diese dumpfen Pfaffenchristen (Recitative)Felix Mendelssohn, MDR Leipzig Radio Chorus, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur, Siegfried Vogel
Die erste Walpurgisnacht, Op. 60: VI. Kommt mit Zacken und mit Gabeln (Allegro molto)Felix Mendelssohn, MDR Leipzig Radio Chorus, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur
Die erste Walpurgisnacht, Op. 60: VII. So weit gebracht, daß wir bei Nacht (L'istesso tempo. Andante maestoso)Felix Mendelssohn, MDR Leipzig Radio Chorus, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur, Siegfried Lorenz
Die erste Walpurgisnacht, Op. 60: VIII. Hilf, ach hilf mir, Kriegsgeselle (Allegro non troppo)Felix Mendelssohn, MDR Leipzig Radio Chorus, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur, Eberhard Büchner
Die erste Walpurgisnacht, Op. 60: IX. Die Flamme reinigt sich vom Rauch (Andante maestoso)Felix Mendelssohn, MDR Leipzig Radio Chorus, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur, Siegfried Lorenz
Infelice in B-Flat Major, Op. 94Felix Mendelssohn, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur, Edda Moser
Trumpet Overture in C Major, Op. 101Felix Mendelssohn, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur
Das Märchen von der schönen Melusine, Op. 32Felix Mendelssohn, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur
Meeresstille und glückliche Fahrt, Op. 27Felix Mendelssohn, Gewandhausorchester, Kurt Masur