Fanny Hensel-Mendelssohn: Cäcilia

Discover the enchanting world of Fanny Hensel-Mendelssohn, a prolific 19th-century German composer who, despite her prodigious talent, composed primarily for friends and family rather than the public. This album, "Fanny Hensel-Mendelssohn: Cäcilia," offers a captivating glimpse into her musical genius, featuring a diverse collection of chamber music pieces that showcase her unique style and profound emotional depth.

Recorded between June and October 1998 at the Thürmer-Saal in Bochum, this album spans a duration of 56 minutes and includes a variety of compositions, from solo and choral works to piano accompaniments. Highlights include "Zum Fest der heiligen Cäcilia," a celebratory piece for soloists, choir, and piano, and "Szene aus Faust II," a dramatic scene from Goethe's famous work, set for soloists, women's choir, and piano. The album also features a selection of songs and duets, such as the soothing "Schlafe du, schlafe du süß" and the lively "Liederzyklus für Felix," a six-part song cycle dedicated to her nephew.

Fanny Hensel-Mendelssohn's music is a testament to her ahead-of-her-time creativity and her ability to convey deep emotions through her compositions. This album is a rare opportunity to explore the works of a composer who, despite her limited public recognition during her lifetime, left behind an impressive legacy of over 450 known musical compositions. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.