Felix Mendelssohn's most famous piece is often considered to be his Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64, though the incidental music for A Midsummer Night's Dream, particularly the iconic "Wedding March," also holds immense global recognition.
The Leading Contenders for Most Famous
While Mendelssohn composed a wealth of beloved and frequently performed works, two stand out for their widespread recognition and enduring appeal:
1. The Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64
The Violin Concerto in E minor is arguably Felix Mendelssohn's most celebrated and frequently performed instrumental work. Completed in 1844, it is a cornerstone of the violin repertoire and is admired for its lyrical beauty, brilliant virtuosity, and innovative structure. Its seamless flow between movements and the unforgettable melodies of its opening and closing sections have cemented its place as one of the greatest violin concertos ever written.
2. Incidental Music for A Midsummer Night's Dream
Mendelssohn's incidental music for Shakespeare's play, A Midsummer Night's Dream, is another immensely famous contribution. He wrote the Overture when he was just 17 in 1826, and later, in 1842, added the full suite of incidental music. This collection includes the enchanting "Scherzo," the lyrical "Nocturne," and, most famously, the universally recognized "Wedding March." The "Wedding March" has become a traditional staple at weddings worldwide, making it perhaps Mendelssohn's single most widely known melody outside of classical music circles.
3. The Oratorio Elijah
The oratorio Elijah, Op. 70, is another monumental work that garners immense acclaim. Premiered in 1846, it is a dramatic and powerful biblical narrative told through a magnificent blend of choruses, arias, and recitatives. Elijah is a staple of choral societies globally and is often regarded as one of the finest oratorios ever composed, showcasing Mendelssohn's mastery of large-scale vocal and orchestral writing.
Other Celebrated Works
Beyond these top contenders, Felix Mendelssohn's prolific output includes many other essential pieces that continue to be performed and cherished. These works demonstrate his versatility across various genres:
- Italian Symphony (Symphony No. 4): A vibrant and joyful work inspired by Mendelssohn's travels in Italy.
- Scottish Symphony (Symphony No. 3): A powerful and atmospheric piece evoking the landscapes of Scotland.
- The Hebrides Overture (Fingal's Cave): A evocative concert overture inspired by a sea cave on the Isle of Staffa.
- Songs Without Words: A collection of lyrical piano pieces, each expressing a distinct mood or character without relying on a specific narrative.
The table below summarizes some of Mendelssohn's most influential and frequently performed works:
| Work Title | Genre | Notable Features / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 | Concerto | A cornerstone of the violin repertoire; known for its lyrical beauty, innovative structure, and seamless movements. |
| A Midsummer Night's Dream (Incidental Music) | Incidental Music | Includes the famous "Wedding March," "Scherzo," and "Nocturne"; widely recognized and culturally iconic. |
| Elijah, Op. 70 | Oratorio | A dramatic and powerful biblical narrative; a staple for choral societies; showcases Mendelssohn's mastery of vocal and orchestral writing. |
| Italian Symphony (Symphony No. 4) | Symphony | Characterized by its vivacious energy and vibrant melodies, inspired by Mendelssohn's journey through Italy. |
| Scottish Symphony (Symphony No. 3) | Symphony | Evokes the Romantic landscapes of Scotland with its atmospheric and dramatic themes. |
| The Hebrides Overture (Fingal's Cave) | Concert Overture | A highly programmatic work depicting the sea and the famous cave, known for its evocative themes and rich orchestration. |
| Songs Without Words | Solo Piano Pieces | A collection of short, lyrical character pieces for piano, expressing various moods without a specific narrative, beloved for their intimacy and melodic charm. |
Mendelssohn's legacy endures through these diverse and enduring compositions, each contributing to his standing as one of the most significant Romantic composers.
