Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847)

Kanon

Lerchengesang  Op. 48 No. 4  (1839)

 

Felix Mendelssohn was among the most gifted musicians of the 19th century and one of the most remarkable child prodigies of any era. He wrote successfully in every genre but opera. In addition to composing, he was among the busiest musicians in Europe: conducting, teaching, performing on the piano and organ, organizing and directing music festivals and other concerts. In addition to his sacred oratorios, cantatas, and hymns, Mendelssohn composed a variety of lighter works for the voice. Composed in 1839, Lerchengesang is an excellent example of the partsongs which were commonly written by most composers of the Romantic Era. Such songs were probably not intended for publication but rather were pieces for social gatherings of choral singers. Sometimes they were sung “in the open air” as the singers took walks together following performances of more serious works.