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Felix Mendelssohn

Violin Concerto in E Minor, Op. 64

Born: February 3, 1809, Hamburg, Germany

Died: November 4, 1847 (age 38 years), Leipzig, Germany

Siblings: Fanny MendelssohnRebecka MendelssohnPaul Mendelssohn

Spouse: Cécile Mendelssohn-Bartholdy (m. 1837–1847)

Parents: Abraham Mendelssohn BartholdyLea Mendelssohn Bartholdy

Overview: Felix Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E Minor, Op. 64 is one of the most beloved and frequently performed works in the violin repertoire. Composed between 1838 and 1844, this concerto showcases Mendelssohn's lyrical style and his innovative approach to concerto form. It remains a cornerstone of the violin concerto repertoire, admired for its seamless integration of technical brilliance and emotional depth.

Musical Style and Structure: The Violin Concerto in E Minor is structured in three movements, each flowing directly into the next without pause—a novel approach at the time. This continuous structure creates a cohesive narrative throughout the work:

  • I. Allegro molto appassionato: The concerto opens with a passionate and intense first movement, marked by its memorable and soaring main theme introduced by the solo violin. Mendelssohn avoids the traditional orchestral introduction, instead allowing the soloist to begin almost immediately. This movement is notable for its virtuosic demands on the soloist, as well as its lyrical second theme and the dramatic interplay between the violin and orchestra.

  • II. Andante: The second movement provides a lyrical contrast to the intensity of the first. It is a serene and songlike piece, with the violin weaving a beautiful, flowing melody over a gentle orchestral accompaniment. The movement’s middle section offers a brief moment of tension before returning to the tranquil opening theme.

  • III. Allegretto non troppo – Allegro molto vivace: The final movement begins with a light and playful introduction that leads into a lively and joyous finale. This movement is filled with sparkling passages for the solo violin, showcasing Mendelssohn’s gift for melody and his ability to balance technical brilliance with a sense of effortless grace.

Historical Context: Mendelssohn composed the concerto with the collaboration of his close friend, the violinist Ferdinand David, who provided valuable insights during the composition process. Premiered in 1845 by David, the concerto was an immediate success and has remained a favorite in the violin repertoire ever since. Mendelssohn’s approach to the concerto form was innovative, particularly in the way he connected the movements and emphasized the lyrical qualities of the violin.

Significance: The Violin Concerto in E Minor is a masterful blend of Romantic expressiveness and Classical clarity. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its perfect balance of technical demands and emotional resonance. Mendelssohn’s concerto continues to be a staple in the repertoire of violinists around the world, cherished for its beauty, elegance, and emotional depth.

Sources:

  • Todd, R. Larry. Mendelssohn: A Life in Music. Oxford University Press, 2003.

  • Mercer-Taylor, Peter. The Life of Mendelssohn. Cambridge University Press, 2000.

  • Pinker, Jon. "Mendelssohn and the Violin Concerto: A New Perspective." 19th-Century Music, vol. 12, no. 3, 1989, pp. 240-257.

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