Mendelssohn: A Midsummer Night's Dream

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical music with Felix Mendelssohn's masterful compositions, paired with Engelbert Humperdinck's timeless opera suite. This album, released on January 1, 2000, under the Maestoso label, offers a captivating journey through two iconic works: Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and Humperdinck's "Hansel and Gretel Suite."

The album kicks off with Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream: Overture," a piece that sets the stage for a whimsical and magical experience. The "Nocturne" and "Scherzo" that follow are equally enchanting, showcasing Mendelssohn's genius for evoking the ethereal and the playful. The famous "Wedding March" concludes this section, a piece that has become a staple in wedding ceremonies worldwide.

The second half of the album features the "Hansel and Gretel Suite" by Engelbert Humperdinck. This suite, conducted by Rudolf Kempe and performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, is a delightful exploration of Humperdinck's operatic score, filled with memorable melodies and vivid orchestration.

With a total duration of 55 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to the works of Mendelssohn and Humperdinck, as well as a delightful addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. The genres covered include chamber music, classical, classical piano, and choral, ensuring a rich and varied listening experience.

Felix Mendelssohn, born into a wealthy banking family in Hamburg in 1809, was a prodigious talent whose influence on the Romantic period is immeasurable. A child prodigy, Mendelssohn excelled not only in music but also in painting, poetry, athletics, and linguistics. His compositions, which include symphonies, concertos, and chamber music, are renowned for their optimism and life-enhancing qualities, earning him the title of one of the 'Sunshine Composers.'

Mendelssohn's repertoire is vast and varied, with standout works including the enchanting overture and incidental music for "A Midsummer Night's Dream," the evocative "Italian" and "Scottish" Symphonies, and the beloved oratorios "St. Paul" and "Elijah." His "Songs Without Words" for solo piano are particularly celebrated, offering a glimpse into his deep emotional range. Beyond his compositions, Mendelssohn was also an accomplished artist, capturing scenes from his travels through England and Scotland in sketches.

Despite his untimely death at the age of 38 in 1847, Mendelssohn's legacy endures, celebrated for his contributions to classical music and his enduring influence on the Romantic era. His music continues to inspire and uplift, a testament to his enduring genius.