What piece is traditionally played at wedding recessions? Learn!
Felix Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" incidental music, Op. 61, is a fascinating piece with several interesting facts:
Inspired by Shakespeare: Mendelssohn composed this music as a companion piece for William Shakespeare's play "A Midsummer Night's Dream." He was only 17 years old when he began working on it, demonstrating his prodigious talent.
Two Compositions: The incidental music consists of two separate compositions: one for the overture and one for various intermezzos, songs, and other pieces to be played throughout the play's performance.
Overture First: Mendelssohn composed the overture first, completing it in just a few days in 1826. The overture has become one of his most famous works and is often performed independently of the full incidental music.
Revival of Shakespeare's Play: Mendelssohn's music played a significant role in reviving interest in Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream." It was performed during a production of the play in 1843, helping to reintroduce Shakespeare to a wider audience.
The Scherzo: One of the standout pieces in the incidental music is the famous "Scherzo," which features the playful and mischievous character of Puck. This piece is known for its lively and whimsical character.
Later Revisions: Mendelssohn made revisions to the music over the years, and the final version of the incidental music, as we know it today, was completed in 1842. It includes some of his most mature and expressive writing.
Influence on Later Composers: Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" music had a significant influence on later composers, including Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and Richard Strauss, who were inspired by its imaginative and programmatic qualities.
A Marriage of Romantic and Classical Styles: This music is often praised for its skillful blend of Romantic and Classical elements. Mendelssohn's mastery of orchestration and his ability to evoke the magical and whimsical atmosphere of Shakespeare's play make it a remarkable work.
Lyrical and Melodic: Mendelssohn's gift for melody is evident in many of the pieces within the incidental music. The music beautifully captures the emotions and characters of the play.
Legacy: Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" continues to be a beloved and frequently performed work in the classical music repertoire. It remains a testament to Mendelssohn's remarkable talent and his ability to bring Shakespeare's words to life through music.