Felix Mendelssohn's Scherzo in E minor, WoO 2, is a lively and spirited piano composition that showcases Mendelssohn's remarkable talent as a composer. Here are a few interesting facts about this piece:
Composition and Early Recognition: Mendelssohn composed the Scherzo in E minor in 1829 when he was just 20 years old. Despite his young age, the piece already displays his mature compositional style, characterized by its melodic inventiveness and rhythmic vitality.
Inspiration from Shakespeare: Mendelssohn was greatly influenced by literature, and his Scherzo, WoO 2, is believed to be inspired by William Shakespeare's play "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Mendelssohn's connection with Shakespeare's works is also evident in his famous Overture and incidental music for the same play.
Structure and Character: The Scherzo is a musical form known for its playful and light-hearted character. In Mendelssohn's Scherzo, WoO 2, listeners can expect to hear rapid, playful melodies and a lively rhythmic drive, typical of the scherzo style.
Rediscovery: Mendelssohn's works, including some of his lesser-known compositions, experienced a revival in the 20th century. This renewed interest in his music led to the rediscovery and recognition of pieces like the Scherzo, WoO 2, which might have been overlooked during Mendelssohn's lifetime.
Influence on Later Composers: Mendelssohn's innovative approach to composition, as showcased in pieces like the Scherzo, WoO 2, had a significant influence on later composers, including Johannes Brahms and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. His ability to combine classical forms with expressive romantic melodies left a lasting impact on the Romantic era of music.
Mendelssohn's Scherzo in E minor, WoO 2, stands as a testament to his prodigious talent and creative genius, capturing the essence of youthful exuberance and musical brilliance.