Why has this march become the ultimate wedding processional? Learn!
Felix Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is a highly acclaimed work of incidental music composed for William Shakespeare's play of the same name. Here are some interesting facts about Mendelssohn's Op. 61:
Youthful Composition: Mendelssohn was just 17 years old when he began composing the overture for "A Midsummer Night's Dream." The overture is one of his most famous pieces and is still widely performed today.
Two Compositional Periods: The composition of the incidental music occurred in two phases. The overture was composed in 1826, and the complete incidental music, including the overture, was composed in 1842. Mendelssohn was commissioned to write the music for a production of the play in Berlin.
Inspiration from Shakespeare: Mendelssohn's deep admiration for Shakespeare's works was a significant influence on his decision to compose this music. He often turned to Shakespearean themes in his compositions.
Widely Recognized Overture: The overture to "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is among Mendelssohn's most recognizable and celebrated pieces. It masterfully captures the whimsical and magical atmosphere of Shakespeare's play.
Woodwind Choir in the Overture: One of the unique features of the overture is the use of the woodwind choir, which creates an ethereal and otherworldly quality that suits the fantastical nature of the play.
Incorporation of Folk Elements: Mendelssohn incorporated elements of folk music into the incidental score, reflecting his interest in folk traditions and his desire to capture the fairy-tale-like ambiance of the play.
Operatic Interludes: In addition to the overture, Mendelssohn's incidental music includes several operatic-style interludes that are meant to be performed between scenes of the play. These interludes add depth and emotion to the narrative.
First Performance: The complete incidental music was first performed in 1843 at the King's Theatre in Potsdam, Germany. The overture, however, had already been performed in public several years prior.
Separate Suites: Mendelssohn later extracted two suites from the incidental music. The first suite includes the overture and a selection of interludes, while the second suite features additional pieces that were not part of the original performance.
Influence on Later Composers: Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" music had a significant impact on later composers and film makers. Its enchanting and whimsical qualities have made it a popular choice for various adaptations and interpretations of the play.
Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" remains a testament to his skill in capturing the essence of Shakespeare's magical world through music, and it continues to be cherished by audiences and performers alike.