Why is Mendelssohn's Wedding March one of the most popular processional tunes in weddings? Learn!
Felix Mendelssohn's incidental music for William Shakespeare's play "A Midsummer Night's Dream," Op. 61, is a delightful and iconic composition. Here are some interesting facts about it:
Inspired Young Composer: Mendelssohn composed the overture and incidental music for "A Midsummer Night's Dream" when he was just 17 years old. He was a prodigious talent, and this work showcased his remarkable skills even at a young age.
Two Parts, One Inspiration: The composition is in two parts: the Overture, Op. 21, written in 1826, and the remaining incidental music, Op. 61, composed in 1842. The latter includes famous pieces like the Scherzo, Nocturne, and Wedding March.
Shakespearean Influence: Mendelssohn was deeply influenced by Shakespeare's play. He had a lifelong admiration for the playwright, and this piece reflects his understanding and appreciation of the magical and whimsical elements in the play.
Notable Premieres: The overture was first performed in 1827, and the complete incidental music was premiered in 1843. Both premieres were well-received, and the Wedding March, in particular, gained immense popularity.
Mendelssohn's Musical Genius: Mendelssohn's music for "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is praised for its inventive orchestration, lyrical melodies, and ability to capture the play's fantastical atmosphere. The piece is often regarded as one of Mendelssohn's masterpieces.
Wedding March Tradition: The Wedding March from the incidental music has become a traditional piece played during wedding ceremonies. It gained popularity after it was used in the wedding of Queen Victoria's daughter, Princess Victoria, to Prince Frederick William of Prussia in 1858.
Literary Connection: Mendelssohn's sister, Fanny Mendelssohn, was a notable writer, and she wrote the text for some of the vocal numbers in the incidental music, including the song "You Spotted Snakes." This collaboration between siblings added a unique dimension to the composition.
Influence on Later Works: Mendelssohn's approach to capturing the whimsical and magical elements of Shakespeare's play had a significant influence on later composers, inspiring them to create music for theatrical productions.
Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" remains a timeless and enchanting musical interpretation of Shakespeare's beloved play, continuing to captivate audiences with its charm and creativity.