The album cover features a pen and ink sketch of Birmingham made by Mendelssohn himself, depicting the Town Hall, the Stork Hotel, and factory chimneys.
Composition History
The chronology of Mendelssohn's five symphonies is confusing; for example, his fourth symphony, 'Lobgesang', was published as Symphony No. 2.
Composition History
Mendelssohn's 'Reformation' Symphony, intended to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, was completed too late for its scheduled premiere.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded using 24-bit / 96 kHz technology, which offers a dynamic range up to 48 dB greater and 256 times the resolution of standard 16-bit recordings.
Performer Biography
Edward Gardner, the Principal Guest Conductor for the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, was awarded an OBE in 2012 for his Services to Music.
Critical Reception
Despite 'thunderous applause' at its London premiere, Mendelssohn was dissatisfied with his 'Italian' Symphony and continued to revise it, even considering recomposing the first movement.
Composer Biography
Mendelssohn's 'Italian' Symphony was inspired by his winter sojourn in Rome, where he felt renewed vigor for composition.
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Felix Mendelssohn: Symphonies Nos. 4 "Italian", 5 "Reformation" & The Hebrides Overture
