Why has Mendelssohn's Wedding March become the eternal soundtrack to Western weddings? Learn!
Felix Mendelssohn's incidental music for William Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream," Op. 61, is a notable work in the composer's oeuvre. Here are some interesting facts about this composition:
Shakespearean Inspiration: Mendelssohn was inspired to compose this music after attending a performance of Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" in 1826. He was just 17 years old at the time. The play left a profound impact on him, and he began working on the music a few years later.
Dual Compositions: Mendelssohn's incidental music for "A Midsummer Night's Dream" consists of two separate compositions. He initially wrote the Overture in 1826 when he was 17, and then, much later, in 1842, he composed the remaining incidental music.
Overture's Unique Origin: The overture, which is one of the most famous parts of the work, was written as a standalone piece before Mendelssohn was commissioned to compose the full incidental music. It was originally intended as a concert overture and was not connected to any theatrical performance.
Dreamy and Imaginative: Mendelssohn's music captures the whimsical and dreamlike atmosphere of Shakespeare's play. It features light, ethereal passages, playful and magical themes, and a sense of enchantment that reflects the supernatural elements of the story.
Scherzo and Nocturne: In addition to the Overture, Mendelssohn composed a Scherzo and a Nocturne as part of the incidental music. The Scherzo is lively and mischievous, while the Nocturne is a tranquil, serene piece that conveys the enchantment of a moonlit night.
Influence on Later Composers: Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" music has had a significant influence on subsequent composers and is often considered a prototype for how to musically represent the magical and fantastical elements of literature. It has inspired other works and adaptations, such as Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's ballet adaptation of the same Shakespearean play.
Mendelssohn's Lifelong Affection: Mendelssohn held a lifelong affection for the "A Midsummer Night's Dream" music. He considered it one of his most important works, and he conducted performances of the complete incidental music on numerous occasions.
Revival of Interest: The music experienced a revival of interest and popularity in the 20th century, with many performances and recordings made, cementing its status as a beloved piece in the classical music repertoire.
Versatile Use: While the music was originally intended for a theatrical production, it is often performed independently in concert settings due to its timeless and enchanting qualities. The overture, in particular, remains a staple of classical orchestral performances.
Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" music is celebrated for its ability to bring the magical and imaginative world of Shakespeare's play to life through the power of music.