Why has this march become a wedding staple despite being written for Shakespearean fairy comedy? Learn!
Felix Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61" is a remarkable piece of incidental music composed for Shakespeare's play "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Here are some interesting facts about this composition:
Early Inspiration: Mendelssohn began composing the overture for "A Midsummer Night's Dream" when he was just 17 years old. He initially composed it as a standalone piece in 1826, long before he was commissioned to write the full incidental music for the play.
Two Parts: The incidental music for "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is divided into two parts. The first part, composed in 1826, includes the famous Overture, while the second part, composed in 1842, contains the remaining pieces, including the well-known Wedding March.
Shakespearean Connection: Mendelssohn was deeply inspired by Shakespeare's play. He had a deep appreciation for the works of the Bard, and this particular piece reflects his enthusiasm for Shakespearean themes.
Commissioned Work: The full incidental music was commissioned by King Friedrich Wilhelm IV of Prussia for a performance of the play in Potsdam. Mendelssohn was initially hesitant about the commission, as he was concerned about living up to Shakespeare's genius, but he eventually accepted.
Unique Scoring: Mendelssohn's score for "A Midsummer Night's Dream" incorporates a unique blend of orchestral and vocal music. It includes both instrumental pieces and vocal songs, enhancing the overall theatrical experience.
Notable Sections: In addition to the Overture and Wedding March, some other notable sections in the incidental music include the Scherzo, Nocturne, and the famous Fairy Music. These pieces capture the whimsical and ethereal atmosphere of Shakespeare's play.
Posthumous Premiere: Although Mendelssohn completed the full incidental music in 1842, he didn't live to see its premiere. The music was first performed posthumously in 1843, a year after Mendelssohn's death.
Influence on Later Composers: Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" music has had a significant influence on subsequent composers. The Wedding March, in particular, has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies and is one of Mendelssohn's most recognized compositions.
Musical Interpretation: Mendelssohn's music skillfully captures the spirit of Shakespeare's play, from the mischievous fairies to the romantic entanglements of the human characters. The composer's ability to convey the magic and whimsy of the story through music is one of the reasons the piece remains beloved.
Lasting Legacy: Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" remains a staple in the world of classical music and theater. It continues to be performed in various adaptations and has left an indelible mark on the world of music and literature.
Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61" is a testament to his talent for creating music that complements and enhances the theatrical experience, making it an enduring work in the realm of classical music.