We have a collection of 5 arrangements for Felix Mendelssohn - March in D major, Op.108
For what type of ensemble did Mendelssohn originally compose his Op.108 marches? Learn!
Felix Mendelssohn's "March in D major, Op. 108" is one of his lesser-known compositions, but it still holds significance in the world of classical music. Here are some interesting facts about this piece:
Composition Date: Mendelssohn composed the "March in D major" in 1841. This was during a period when he was revisiting and arranging older compositions as part of his ongoing efforts to publish and promote his earlier works.
Intended Purpose: This march was originally written as part of incidental music for a play titled "Athalie" by Jean Racine. Mendelssohn was commissioned to compose the music for this play, and the march was one of the pieces he created for it.
Theatre Music: Mendelssohn was a prolific composer of theatre music. His talent for creating atmospheric and emotionally resonant music made him a sought-after composer for plays, and he composed for several Shakespearean plays as well.
Rediscovery: While Mendelssohn's symphonies and piano concertos are better known today, his theatre music, including the "March in D major," has gained renewed attention in recent years. Performances and recordings of these lesser-known works have helped shed light on this aspect of Mendelssohn's composition.
Characteristic Mendelssohn Style: The "March in D major" showcases Mendelssohn's characteristic style, characterized by its lyricism, elegance, and clear structure. Even in this relatively short piece, you can hear his talent for crafting memorable melodies and harmonies.
Revised and Rearranged: Mendelssohn revised and rearranged this march several times. He created versions for various ensemble sizes, including a version for piano four-hands, which allowed for more versatile performance options.
Time Signature: The march is in 6/8 time, which gives it a lively and dance-like quality. This time signature contributes to its cheerful and spirited character.
Relative Obscurity: While this march may not be as famous as some of Mendelssohn's other works, it still provides valuable insights into his compositional style and the diversity of his musical output.
Performance Opportunities: Despite its relative obscurity, the "March in D major, Op. 108" is occasionally performed in concerts and recitals, providing audiences with a chance to appreciate a lesser-known gem from Mendelssohn's catalogue.
In summary, Mendelssohn's "March in D major, Op. 108" may not be as well-known as some