Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Felix Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream," a captivating album that brings to life the whimsical and magical essence of Shakespeare's beloved play. Released in 1994 under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, this 55-minute studio album is a testament to Mendelssohn's genius, featuring the iconic overture and a rich tapestry of incidental music composed for the play.
The album opens with the Overture, Op. 21, a piece Mendelssohn wrote at the tender age of 16, showcasing his prodigious talent. It seamlessly transitions into the incidental music, Op. 61, which includes a variety of instrumental and choral pieces that complement the play's narrative. From the playful "Fairies' March" to the serene "Notturno" and the world-renowned "Wedding March," each track is a masterclass in orchestration and composition.
Performed by the illustrious Boston Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Seiji Ozawa, with vocal contributions from Kathleen Battle and Frederica von Stade, and the Tanglewood Festival Chorus, this recording is a symphonic journey through the magical forest of Athens. The ensemble's virtuosity and the conductor's insightful interpretation bring out the nuances and depth of Mendelssohn's score, making it a standout in the classical music repertoire.
Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "A Midsummer Night's Dream" offers a delightful exploration of Mendelssohn's musical prowess. The album's blend of chamber music, orchestral pieces, and choral works provides a comprehensive overview of the composer's ability to evoke the ethereal and the dramatic. This recording is not just a collection of Mendelssohn's compositions but a celebration of his enduring legacy in the world of classical music.
Tracks
Overture "A Midsummer Night's Dream", Op. 21Felix Mendelssohn, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61: No. 1, ScherzoFelix Mendelssohn, Judi Dench, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61: No. 2, L'istesso tempoFelix Mendelssohn, Judi Dench, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Incidental Music, Op. 61, MWV M 13: Fairies' MarchFelix Mendelssohn, Judi Dench, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61: No. 3, Song with Chorus. You Spotted SnakesFelix Mendelssohn, Kathleen Battle, Frederica von Stade, Judi Dench, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa, Tanglewood Festival Chorus, John Oliver
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61: No. 4, Melodrama. The Speels. AndanteFelix Mendelssohn, Judi Dench, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61: No. 5, IntermezzoFelix Mendelssohn, Judi Dench, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61: No. 7, NotturnoFelix Mendelssohn, Judi Dench, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61: No. 8, Melodrama. AndanteFelix Mendelssohn, Judi Dench, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61: No. 10a, PrologueFelix Mendelssohn, Judi Dench, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61: No. 10b, Funeral MarchFelix Mendelssohn, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61: No. 11, Dance of the ClownsFelix Mendelssohn, Judi Dench, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61: No. 12, Allegro vivace come 1 (Music between Act V, Scenes 1 & 2)Felix Mendelssohn, Judi Dench, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61: Finale. Bei des Feuers mattem FlimmernFelix Mendelssohn, Kathleen Battle, Judi Dench, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa, Tanglewood Festival Chorus, John Oliver
Whether you're just starting your vinyl collection or have been spinning for years, the right turntable makes all the difference. We've selected the best options for every budget.
Whether a review is positive, negative, or neutral, we always publish it. However, we screen every review to ensure it is authentic and free of profanity. These checks happen automatically, though a human occasionally steps in. We never pay for reviews.
Looking for "Mendelssohn: A Midsummer Night's Dream" on vinyl?
We don't have a live price right now, but stock fluctuates daily. You can check for hidden stock on Amazon directly, or let us alert you as soon as it is available.
