Search - Felix [1] Mendelssohn, Nicholas Ward, Northern Chamber Orchestra :: Mendelssohn: String Symphonies Vol. 2, Nos. 7-9

Vibrant Performances

D. A Wend | Buffalo Grove, IL USA | 02/10/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Felix Mendelssohn wrote his twelve String Symphonies from 1821 to 1823. The first seven were completed in 1821 when the composer was 12 years old; the eighth was composed in 1822 with the others following in 1823. The symphonies recorded here (7, 8 and 9) show how quickly Mendelssohn matured as a composer in a matter of months. Beginning with the Seventh, the works are laid out in the traditional four movements and Mendelssohn is striking out on his own and no longer imitating other composers such as Mozart and Bach.



String Symphony No. 7 is in D minor and has a dramatic opening (that sounds a bit like Bach to me) followed by a serene slow movement and an expressive and energetic Menuetto. The finale begins in rapid speed with a joyous melody that gives way to a lyrical trio returning to the opening melody that brings the work to brilliant conclusion.



String Symphony No. 8 is longer and marvelously polished. The work begins with a solemn introduction leading to an energetic Allegro. The Adagio is scored for three viola, cello and double bass that provide a rich sonorous sound and contracts with the bucolic Minuetto that follows. The finale is a brilliantly conceived fugue; the music is exuberant and moves along at a fast tempo.



String Symphony No. 9, like its predecessor, opens with a solemn introduction that is more extended here, and opens with a vigorous melody. The Andante is scored for four violins, two violas, cello and double bass providing a more intimate chamber music sound. Instead of a Menuetto Mendelssohn composed a Scherzo with a trio section that was inspired by a visit to Switzerland where he heard a yodeling song; something of a precursor of the Scottish and Italian symphonies. The finale begins with a dramatic theme and the music develops with a mature and confident handing that is astonishing for a 14 year old. The symphony ends with a jubilant burst of music.



The performances by the Northern Chamber Orchestra are first rate and the disc is beautifully recorded. There are other recordings of Mendelssohn's String Symphonies by more famous ensembles and conductors but the Naxos disc is a good bargain with good performances.

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