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Felix Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 is a well-known and beloved piece in the classical music repertoire. Here are some interesting facts about this concerto:

1. Dedication: Mendelssohn composed the concerto in 1844 and dedicated it to his friend and violin virtuoso, Ferdinand David. David also gave the concerto's premiere in Leipzig in 1845.

2. Three Movements: The concerto consists of three movements:

   • Allegro molto appassionato: This is a fiery and passionate first movement.
   • Andante: The second movement is a lyrical and expressive adagio.
   • Allegretto non troppo - Allegro molto vivace: The concerto concludes with a lively and cheerful final movement.

3. Innovative Opening: Mendelssohn did something innovative in this concerto. Instead of the usual orchestral introduction, he opened with a solo violin, which was unconventional for the time. This unique beginning sets the tone for the entire piece.

4. Mendelssohn's Last Orchestral Work: This concerto is one of Mendelssohn's last orchestral works before his untimely death in 1847. It showcases his mature style and is considered one of his most important compositions.

5. Technical Challenges: The concerto is known for its technical challenges for the solo violinist. It requires virtuosic skill, particularly in the first movement, which is filled with rapid runs and difficult passages.

6. Long Overdue Recognition: While the concerto is now celebrated as a masterpiece, it wasn't immediately recognized as such. It took some time for it to gain popularity and become a staple of the violin repertoire.

7. Influence on Later Composers: Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto had a significant influence on later composers, particularly those who wrote violin concertos. It served as a model for many subsequent works in the genre.

8. Rediscovery: The manuscript of the concerto was lost for many years after Mendelssohn's death. It was rediscovered in the mid-20th century in a private collection, shedding new light on the composition.

Felix Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto, Op. 64, remains a cherished piece in the world of classical music, known for its innovation, virtuosity, and emotional depth.