MU111 - Mendelssohn

“Renaissance Man” meaning

They’re well-rounded, often do a lot of different things.

Felix Mandelssohn Basic Info

Born in Hamburg, Germany. A composer, pianist, organist, violinist, and conductor, he was an important education and a musicologist (taught and studied the history of music).

Bach’s Revival

A series of Bach’s works organized by Mendelssohn. In 1829, he did this. Started the Bach revival movement. His sister, Fanny Mendelssohn, composed but was never recognized for her works.

Mendelssohn’s Style

Unity, grace, balance—basic classical ideals. Romantic, colorful harmonies and distinctive orchestration. 

Mendelssohn’s Sister

Wasn’t recognized during her time despite being a talented composer. Her father and brother disapproved of her pursuit of the talent.

What Piano Enabled

Allowed a lot (more than before the 1800s) of women to compose. Women were thought to have no greater purpose than to be housewives.

Mendelssohn’s Style

Mixture of classical and romantic. Compositions were inspired by nature, travel, and literature. His music sounds balanced, clean, elegant, and romantic-esque subjects. His symphonies were in Italian, Scottish, while his overture included Herbrides, A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Overture to a Midsummer Night’s Dream

A concert overture based on Shakespeare’s play. Composed in 1826.

Opera Overture vs. Concert Overture

Opera introduced the overture in an opera overture, whereas a concert overture doesn’t include voices. The orchestral part is removed, it’s just concert.

Incidental Music

Music to be performed before and during a play as background music. The most popular is the Wedding march. Doesn’t fit any genre, can be used for any drama as accompaniment. 

Overture to a Midsummer Night’s Dream Groups

3 separate groups of characters: the fairies, the pair of lovers living under the rule of Duke Theseus, and a group of common craftsmen led by the donkey Bottom.

Musical Characters - Fairies Music

Rapid and light melody played by violins.

Musical Characters - Duke Theseus and His Court

Full orchestra, loud dynamics.

Musical Characters - Lovers’ Music

Quiet melody in woodwinds and strings.

Musical Characters - Bottom’s Music

A motive that sounds like a braying donkey (he’s a donkey).