Felix Mendelssohn's String Octet, Op. 20, is a remarkable and widely celebrated composition in the chamber music repertoire. Here are some interesting facts about this work:
Composition at a Young Age: Mendelssohn composed the String Octet when he was just 16 years old in 1825. The level of maturity and craftsmanship in the composition is astonishing considering his age.
Inspiration from Shakespeare: The Octet is often said to be inspired by Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Mendelssohn had a deep appreciation for literature, and the whimsical and lively character of the Octet is thought to reflect the spirit of Shakespeare's play.
Double Quartet Configuration: The String Octet is written for a double quartet, meaning it requires eight string instruments – four violins, two violas, and two cellos. This instrumentation allows for rich harmonies and a full, orchestral sound in a chamber music setting.
Performance Premier: The Octet had its public premiere in 1832 in Leipzig, with the composer himself conducting. It was an immediate success, with critics and audiences alike praising Mendelssohn's genius in capturing both youthful exuberance and profound musical depth.
Mendelssohn's Enthusiasm for the Work: Mendelssohn held the Octet in high regard throughout his life. In a letter to a friend, he wrote, "I had a most definite and important stipulation with my publisher, Breitkopf & Härtel, namely, that if ever I should write a decent quartet for the public, he would promise to produce it at the very first, and I would dedicate it to him. Well, I did write one...a piece with eight parts, which turned out beautifully."
Influence on Later Composers: Mendelssohn's String Octet has had a significant impact on later composers. One notable example is Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, who greatly admired the work. Tchaikovsky's own String Sextet, "Souvenir de Florence," is said to be influenced by Mendelssohn's Octet.
Blend of Classicism and Romanticism: The Octet reflects Mendelssohn's ability to bridge the Classical and Romantic styles. While it adheres to certain classical forms, it also demonstrates a forward-looking Romantic expressiveness and emotional depth.
Mendelssohn's Remarkable Year: The String Octet was not the only notable work Mendelssohn composed in 1825. That same year, he also composed his famous overture to "A Midsummer Night's Dream," making it a remarkably productive and significant year in his career.
Mendelssohn's String Octet remains a staple of chamber music repertoire, admired for its youthful vigor, intricate craftsmanship, and enduring beauty.