Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Felix Mendelssohn's masterful compositions with this captivating album. Released on August 25, 2017, under the prestigious harmonia mundi label, this collection showcases Mendelssohn's unparalleled genius across a variety of genres, including chamber music, classical, classical piano, and choral works.
The album opens with the enchanting Violin Concerto in E Minor, Op. 64, a piece that highlights Mendelssohn's ability to blend technical brilliance with profound emotional depth. The concerto's three movements, from the passionate Allegro molto appassionato to the lively Allegro molto vivace, demonstrate the composer's mastery of form and expression.
Following the concerto, the album presents The Hebrides, Op. 26, MWV P7, a piece inspired by the natural beauty of the Scottish islands. This work is a testament to Mendelssohn's ability to capture the essence of a landscape in music, creating a sense of place and atmosphere that is both vivid and evocative.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 5 in D Minor, Op. 107, MWV N15, also known as the "Reformation" Symphony. This monumental work, composed to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, is a powerful and dramatic piece that showcases Mendelssohn's ability to convey profound spiritual and historical themes through music. The symphony's four movements, from the Andante (Allegro con fuoco) to the triumphant Choral "Ein fest Burg" (Andante con moto - Allegro vivace - Allegro maestoso), offer a rich and varied listening experience.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 1 minute, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Mendelssohn's musical genius. Whether you are a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer to the genre, this collection is sure to delight and inspire.