Mendelssohn: Trios

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of chamber music with Felix Mendelssohn's "Mendelssohn: Trios," released on Zig-Zag Territoires in 2015. This album is a testament to Mendelssohn's mastery of the piano trio form, featuring two of his most celebrated works: the Piano Trio No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 49, and the Piano Trio No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 66. Each piece is a journey through a landscape of emotions, from the intense and agitated opening of the first trio to the passionate finale of the second.

The album also includes two enchanting transcriptions of Bach's chorale preludes, "Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland" and "Ich ruf zu dir, Herr Jesu Christ," beautifully arranged for violin and piano, and cello and piano respectively. These pieces add a touch of sacred harmony to the album, providing a serene contrast to the dramatic intensity of the trios.

Performed by the renowned Hamlet Piano Trio, this recording is a must-listen for any classical music enthusiast. The trio's impeccable technique and deep understanding of Mendelssohn's style bring these works to life with vivid clarity and emotional depth. Whether you're a longtime fan of Mendelssohn or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the beauty and power of chamber music.

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.