We have a collection of 27 arrangements for Felix Mendelssohn - A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61: Overture
What magical Shakespearean comedy inspired this iconic Mendelssohn overture? Learn!
Felix Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" incidental music, Op. 61, is a captivating and influential work. Here are some interesting facts about it:
Inspiration from Shakespeare: Mendelssohn composed the incidental music for William Shakespeare's play "A Midsummer Night's Dream." He first composed the overture at the young age of 17, and later expanded the work to include additional incidental music for a full production of the play.
Overture's Early Composition: The famous Overture was composed in 1826, well before Mendelssohn wrote the additional incidental music. The overture is one of Mendelssohn's most well-known and frequently performed compositions, and it effectively captures the magical and whimsical essence of Shakespeare's play.
Revival of Interest in Shakespeare: Mendelssohn's music played a significant role in reviving interest in Shakespeare's play during the 19th century. The composer's expressive and imaginative score contributed to a renewed appreciation for the classic work.
Notable Musical Elements: The incidental music includes various memorable themes, such as the famous Wedding March, which has become a traditional choice for wedding ceremonies. The lively and celebratory character of the Wedding March makes it a popular and enduring choice for bridal processionals.
Two Distinct Parts: The incidental music is divided into two parts, corresponding to the two distinct acts of the play. Mendelssohn carefully selected and crafted the music to enhance the atmosphere and emotions of the various scenes, ranging from the magical world of the fairies to the comedic and romantic elements of the human characters.
Instrumentation and Orchestration: Mendelssohn employed a rich orchestration in the incidental music, utilizing a full orchestra to bring out the enchanting and whimsical qualities of the play. The composer's skillful orchestration contributes to the vivid and evocative nature of the music.
Legacy and Influence: Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" remains one of the most celebrated and frequently performed works associated with Shakespearean literature. The music's enduring popularity has solidified Mendelssohn's reputation as a masterful composer who successfully captured the essence of one of Shakespeare's most beloved plays.