Despite being a relatively well-known classical composer, Felix Mendelssohn is perhaps remembered most for his ethnicity and Jewish family background. While it is important to consider how Mendelssohn's background shaped the reception of his music, I believe it has taken attention away from his music. I have decided to write a list of some lesser known Mendelssohn works which are definitely worth a listen!
The picture above is a portrait of Felix Mendelssohn. Notice in particular the prominent nose, which is a feature of several of his portraits. This idea of a big nose became a feature of the stereotypical ethnic Jew (i.e. regardless of religion, e.g. they may be Christian with Jewish parents) in the later nineteenth century.
And now onto the list!
While Mendelssohn is remembered today mostly for his instrumental compositions, he was also a prominent composer of vocal music. Therefore, I have decided to, with the exception of No.3, only include vocal works in this list.
There shall a star from Jacob come forth, from Op.97
This is a chorus movement from Mendelssohn's unfinished oratorio Christus. I have sung it twice at evensong - it's so much fun to sing and wonderful to listen to. It has the sort of tune which will be stuck in your head for the rest of the week after listening to it.
2. Hear Ye Israel, Op.70 No.21.
This is a soprano aria from his oratorio Elijah and a personal favourite of mine! The oratorio was actually written for and premiered at a concert in Birmingham Town as part of the Birmingham Music Festival. It was a huge success at the time, but appears to have fallen by the wayside today, which is a real shame.
3. Lobgesang, aka Hymn of Praise, Op.52
Described as a "symphony-cantata", this work utilises vocal soloists, chorus and orchestra. Note the parallels with the finale to Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, which also uses vocal soloists, chorus and orchestra. While Beethoven's work has been the focus of much scholarship, the Lobgesang by contrast has been rather neglected.
4. Verleih' uns Frieden, WoO.5
For anyone who is a fan of choral music, this will be a sure hit! Beautiful part-writing, melodic lines and textures. It's also pretty short, making it easily accessible for first time listeners.
5. Ave maria, Op.23 No.2
This motet for solo eight voices is so beautiful to listen to, as with Verleih' uns Frieden above. Truthfully, I don't have much to say about it, the music speaks for itself!
Honourable Mentions:
These three works are also worthy of a listen, although they are not my personal favourites.
1. Hear my Prayer, WoO.15. Anthem
2. Any of Mendelssohn's Psalm settings, particularly the setting of Psalm 98, Op.91
3. Lauda Sion, Op. 73
Recommended Recordings:
Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment / Paul Daniel, Elijah (Decca)
The soprano soloist in this recording is the wonderful Renee Fleming, I cannot recommend anything she sings in enough!
2. St John's College Choir, Cambridge/David Hill (Hyperion)
This recording includes both the Verleih uns Frieden, the Ave Maria and Hear My Prayer. The choir are excellent and well conducted.
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