Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Felix Mendelssohn with his exquisite collection of piano trios and transcriptions, released under the album title "Mendelssohn: Trios." This album, released on May 18, 2015, under the Zig-Zag Territoires label, is a testament to Mendelssohn's mastery of chamber music, offering a rich and diverse listening experience that spans a little over an hour.
The album opens with Mendelssohn's Piano Trio No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 49, a work that showcases the composer's ability to blend intensity and lyricism. The trio's four movements, from the fiery "Molto allegro agitato" to the passionate "Finale (Allegro assai appassionato)," provide a dynamic journey through a range of emotions and musical textures.
Following this, the album includes a transcription of Johann Sebastian Bach's "Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland, BWV 659," arranged for violin and piano. This piece offers a moment of reflection and spiritual depth, highlighting Mendelssohn's reverence for Bach and his ability to reinterpret the master's work.
The second half of the album features Mendelssohn's Piano Trio No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 66, another powerful and expressive work. The trio's four movements, from the energetic "Allegro energico e con fuoco" to the impassioned "Finale (Allegro appassionato)," demonstrate Mendelssohn's skill in crafting complex and emotionally resonant compositions.
The album concludes with another Bach transcription, "Ich ruf zu dir, Herr Jesu Christ in F Minor, BWV 639," arranged for cello and piano. This piece provides a serene and contemplative ending to the album, showcasing Mendelssohn's ability to blend the sacred and the secular in his music.
Throughout the album, Mendelssohn's compositions are performed with precision and passion, bringing to life the intricate details and emotional depth of his music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling and rewarding listening experience that highlights the enduring genius of Felix Mendelssohn.