Mendelssohn: Symphonies Nos.1 & 2 etc.

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Felix Mendelssohn's orchestral and choral masterpieces with this captivating album. Released on January 1, 1999, under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, this collection showcases Mendelssohn's extraordinary compositional prowess, spanning symphonies and choral works that have left an indelible mark on classical music.

The album opens with Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 11, a youthful yet profound work that reveals the composer's early genius. The symphony's four movements, from the energetic "Allegro di molto" to the fiery "Allegro con fuoco," demonstrate Mendelssohn's ability to blend dramatic intensity with lyrical beauty.

Following the symphony, the album presents "Der Erste Walpurgisnacht, Op. 60," a cantata that blends Mendelssohn's distinctive musical language with the poetic narrative of Goethe's text. The overture and subsequent movements, such as "Es lacht der Mai!" and "Könnt ihr so verwegen handeln?," offer a rich tapestry of vocal and orchestral colors.

The album concludes with Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 2 in B Flat, Op. 52, subtitled "Hymn of Praise." This monumental work is a celebration of faith and redemption, featuring a chorus and soloists in a grand, uplifting finale. The symphony's ten movements, including the serene "Adagio religioso" and the triumphant "Nun danket alle Gott," showcase Mendelssohn's ability to convey deep spiritual and emotional resonance.

With a total duration of 2 hours and 7 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Mendelssohn's symphonic and choral repertoire. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Mendelssohn's works, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.