Hope Metropolitan Orchestra: Mendelssohn and Schumann: Romantic Heights

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Lauryna Sableviciute, Pianist
Hope Metropolitan Orchestra, Stephen Pratt, Conductor

Mendelssohn - Overture Ruy Blas
Mendelssohn - Piano Concerto No. 1 in G Minor
Schumann - Symphony  No. 3 in Eb op. 97 (Rhenish)

The Mendelssohn and Schuman families were close friends. Both composers respected each other’s work which are pinnacles of the romantic style. Beautiful melodies or imaginative harmonies are typical features but whereas Mendelssohn was traditional in temperament and outlook – he was Queen Victoria’s favourite composer. Schumann had a rebellious streak. The Overture and Piano Concerto are lucid and clear. The Symphony, in 5 (not the usual 4) movements is, by turns, passionate, introspective and descriptive.

Both men had very talented women in their lives. Fanny Mendelssohn – Felix’s sister - was an accomplished composer; Clara Schumann – Robert’s wife - also a noted composer, was the greatest female pianist of the 19th century. Their talents are only now being broadly recognized.