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Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy (1809-1847), born Jakob Ludwig Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy in Hamburg, Germany, was a prolific composer, pianist, organist, and conductor of the early Romantic period. His compositions include symphonies, concertos, piano music, and chamber music. His distinctive musical style combines classical forms with romantic content, characterized by lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and his use of programmatic elements. Notable examples of his work include the 'Italian' Symphony, the incidental music for 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', which features the famous 'Wedding March', and the 'Scottish' Symphony. As a musician esteemed for his education and refinement, Mendelssohn was also active as a musical organizer, notably reviving interest in the music of Johann Sebastian Bach through his performance of the St. Matthew Passion in 1829. His correspondence, particularly the 'Letters of Felix Mendelssohn to Ignaz and Charlotte Moscheles' (Kloppmann, M. ed., 1888), provides valuable insights into his personal and professional life, his relationships with contemporaries, and his artistic convictions. Mendelssohn's prolific output and his blend of the classical tradition with new romantic trends made him one of the leading figures in the world of music during his lifetime, and his influence persisted long after his premature death at the age of 38. |
