Felix Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is a captivating classical album released in 1987 under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label. This exquisite collection of incidental music, Op. 61, is a testament to Mendelssohn's mastery of composition, blending chamber music, choral, and classical piano elements into a harmonious whole. The album spans 47 minutes and features 12 tracks, including the iconic "Overture" and the enchanting "Wedding March."
Recorded by the renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra under the baton of James Levine, this album brings to life the whimsical and magical world of Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Mendelssohn's compositions beautifully capture the essence of the play, from the playful "Scherzo" and the ethereal "Notturno" to the lively "Dance of the Clowns." The album also includes choral pieces, such as the "Song with Chorus: 'Bunte Schlangen, zweigezüngt'," showcasing the Wiener Jeunesse-Chor's exquisite vocals.
This album is a must-listen for classical music enthusiasts and those who appreciate the intricate and evocative compositions of Felix Mendelssohn. Whether you're a seasoned listener or new to classical music, "A Midsummer Night's Dream" offers a rich and immersive experience that highlights Mendelssohn's enduring legacy in the world of classical music.
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Incidental Music, Op. 61: OvertureFelix Mendelssohn, Wiener Philharmoniker, André Previn
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Incidental Music, Op. 61: I. ScherzoFelix Mendelssohn, Wiener Philharmoniker, André Previn
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Incidental Music, Op. 61: II. Scene - Fairies' MarchFelix Mendelssohn, Wiener Philharmoniker, André Previn
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Incidental Music, Op. 61: III. Song with Chorus: "Bunte Schlangen, zweigezüngt"Felix Mendelssohn, Eva Lind, Christine Cairns, Wiener Jeunesse-Chor, Wiener Philharmoniker, André Previn
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Incidental Music, Op. 61: V. IntermezzoFelix Mendelssohn, Wiener Philharmoniker, André Previn
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Incidental Music, Op. 61: VII. Notturno. Con moto tranquilloFelix Mendelssohn, Wiener Philharmoniker, André Previn
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Incidental Music, Op. 61: IX. Wedding MarchFelix Mendelssohn, Wiener Philharmoniker, André Previn
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Incidental Music, Op. 61: Xa. PrologueFelix Mendelssohn, Wiener Philharmoniker, André Previn
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Incidental Music, Op. 61: Xb. Funeral MarchFelix Mendelssohn, Wiener Philharmoniker, André Previn
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Incidental Music, Op. 61: XI. Dance of the ClownsFelix Mendelssohn, Wiener Philharmoniker, André Previn
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Incidental Music, Op. 61: XII. Music between Act V Scenes 1 & 2 - Finale: "Bei des Feuers mattem Flimmern"Felix Mendelssohn, Eva Lind, Wiener Jeunesse-Chor, Wiener Philharmoniker, André Previn