Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Hymn

Compose Date

:

Dec 12, 1840

Publication Date

:

1852

Average_duration

:

13:11

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Felix Mendelssohn composed his 'Hymn for alto in E flat major, Op. 96' in 1831. The piece was premiered in Berlin in the same year, with the composer himself conducting. The work is a single movement piece, lasting around six minutes. The 'Hymn for alto' is a beautiful and expressive work, showcasing Mendelssohn's skill in writing for the voice. The piece is set for solo alto voice and piano, with the piano providing a rich and supportive accompaniment to the vocal line. The work begins with a gentle and flowing piano introduction, which sets the mood for the piece. The alto voice then enters, singing a simple and lyrical melody. The vocal line is expressive and emotive, with Mendelssohn using a range of dynamics and articulations to convey the meaning of the text. The text of the 'Hymn for alto' is a poem by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, entitled 'Harzreise im Winter' (Winter Journey in the Harz Mountains). The poem describes a journey through the snowy landscape, and the feelings of awe and wonder that this inspires in the speaker. Mendelssohn's setting of the text is sensitive and evocative, with the music perfectly capturing the mood and atmosphere of the poem. The piece is full of beautiful melodies and harmonies, with the piano and voice working together in perfect harmony. Overall, the 'Hymn for alto in E flat major, Op. 96' is a stunning work of art, showcasing Mendelssohn's skill as a composer and his ability to write for the voice. The piece is a testament to the power of music to convey emotion and meaning, and remains a beloved work in the classical repertoire to this day.

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