Mendelssohn: Die erste Walpurgisnacht

Dive into the enchanting world of Felix Mendelssohn with this captivating album, "Mendelssohn: Die erste Walpurgisnacht." Released in 2015, this collection is a treasure trove of Mendelssohn's genius, featuring a mix of choral, chamber, and orchestral works that showcase his mastery of classical composition.

The centerpiece of the album is Mendelssohn's "Die erste Walpurgisnacht, Op. 60," a dramatic cantata based on a ballad by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. This work, composed between 1830 and 1832 and revised in 1843, is a vivid musical depiction of pagan rituals, featuring a rich tapestry of voices and instruments. The album also includes Mendelssohn's "Infelice" in B-flat Major, Op. 94, and his "Trumpet Overture" in C Major, Op. 101, both of which are excellent examples of his ability to blend melody and harmony in innovative ways.

In addition to these works, the album features two of Mendelssohn's most beloved compositions: "Das Märchen von der schönen Melusine, Op. 32," and "Meeresstille und glückliche Fahrt, Op. 27." These pieces, along with the rest of the album, are performed by a stellar cast of vocalists and musicians, including Annelies Burmeister, Eberhard Büchner, Siegfried Lorenz, and Siegfried Vogel, under the direction of Kurt Masur and the Gewandhausorchester Leipzig.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to Mendelssohn's music for both new and experienced listeners. The album was released by Brilliant Classics and features a diverse range of genres, including chamber music, classical, classical piano, and choral. Whether you're a fan of Mendelssohn's music or simply looking to explore the world of classical music, this album is sure to delight and inspire.

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.