Mendelssohn made several visits to Birmingham, England, to conduct at the Birmingham Musical Festival, where he achieved great success, particularly with the premiere of his oratorio 'Elijah'.
Composition History
Mendelssohn began sketching his 'Scottish' Symphony in 1829 after being inspired by the ruins at Holyrood, but only completed it in 1842.
Album & Artwork
The album cover features a pen-and-ink sketch by Mendelssohn himself, depicting Birmingham Town Hall and other local landmarks, sent as part of a letter in 1840.
Performer Biography
Edward Gardner, the Principal Guest Conductor of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, was awarded an OBE in 2012 for his services to music.
Composition History
The chronology of Felix Mendelssohn's five symphonies is confusing, with works often published out of their compositional order and undergoing significant revisions.
Composer Biography
Felix Mendelssohn was born into a wealthy and enlightened family; his grandfather was the philosopher Moses Mendelssohn, and his father, Abraham Mendelssohn, was a banker.
Composition History
Mendelssohn composed the Overture to 'Ruy Blas' in just three days, despite initially disliking Victor Hugo's play and only intending to write a chorus for it.
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Felix Mendelssohn: Symphonies Nos. 4 "Italian", 5 "Reformation" & The Hebrides Overture
