Why is Mendelssohn's Wedding March one of the most popular pieces played at Western weddings? Learn!
Felix Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" incidental music, Op. 61 is a notable composition with several interesting facts:
Inspired by Shakespeare: Mendelssohn was greatly inspired by William Shakespeare's famous play "A Midsummer Night's Dream." He composed this incidental music as a response to the play, capturing the magical and whimsical elements of the story.
Two Compositions: Mendelssohn's work on "A Midsummer Night's Dream" consists of two separate compositions: one in 1826 when he was just 17 years old and another in 1842. The latter is the more famous and frequently performed of the two.
Composed for Different Occasions: The 1826 overture was composed for a performance of the play at the family's home, while the 1842 version was composed for a production at the King's Theatre in Berlin. The later version includes the famous Wedding March.
The Wedding March: Perhaps the most famous piece from this incidental music is the "Wedding March," often played during wedding ceremonies. This piece has become a traditional choice for wedding processions and has achieved great popularity.
Pioneering Program Music: Mendelssohn's work on "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is considered a prime example of program music, a type of composition that tells a story or depicts a specific scene or event. Mendelssohn's music reflects the various characters and moods of the play.
Innovative Scoring: Mendelssohn was innovative in his use of orchestration in this composition. He used a variety of orchestral techniques and colorful instrumentation to capture the fantastical and magical aspects of the play.
Influence on Future Composers: Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" music had a profound influence on later composers, including Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, who admired Mendelssohn's skill in portraying Shakespearean themes through music.
Mendelssohn's Gifted Youth: It's remarkable that Mendelssohn composed the first version of this music when he was just 17 years old, demonstrating his prodigious musical talent at a young age. The 1842 version showcases his growth and maturity as a composer.
Successful from the Start: Mendelssohn's incidental music for "A Midsummer Night's Dream" was well-received from the very beginning, and it played a significant role in establishing his reputation as a composer.
Iconic Interpretation of Shakespeare: Mendelssohn's composition is often celebrated for its ability to capture the enchanting and ethereal qualities of Shakespeare's play, making it a lasting and beloved musical interpretation of "A Midsummer Night's Dream."
Felix Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" incidental music, Op. 61, is a significant work in the world of classical music, known for its timeless and enchanting qualities.