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Felix Mendelssohn's incidental music for "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is a remarkable composition with some interesting facts:

1. Inspiration from Shakespeare: Mendelssohn composed the music in 1842, inspired by William Shakespeare's play "A Midsummer Night's Dream." He had read the play in both German and English by the age of 15 and was captivated by its whimsical and fantastical elements.

2. Early Composition: Mendelssohn composed the Overture when he was only 17 years old, and it remains one of his most famous and frequently performed works. The complete incidental music, including the overture and various other pieces, was written later for a production of the play.

3. Originality of the Overture: The Overture is particularly notable for its originality. Mendelssohn managed to capture the essence of Shakespeare's play in music, from the mischievous fairies to the romantic entanglements of the human characters. The Overture is a standalone masterpiece that is often performed independently from the rest of the incidental music.

4. Innovative Scoring: Mendelssohn employed innovative orchestration techniques in the incidental music, including his use of the recently invented instrument, the "saxhorn." This added a unique and magical quality to the composition.

5. Notable Movements: In addition to the famous Overture, other notable movements include the Scherzo, which reflects the lively and playful atmosphere of the fairy world, and the Wedding March, which has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies.

6. Long-Term Impact: Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" has had a lasting impact on the world of classical music and is considered a masterpiece of incidental music. The Overture, in particular, is widely recognized and loved, making it a staple in the orchestral repertoire.

Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" remains a significant and enchanting work that beautifully complements Shakespeare's timeless play.