Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

May 12, 1830

Publication Date

:

1868

First Performance

:

Jun 25, 1830

Average_duration

:

28:32

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Felix Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 5 in D major/D minor, Op. 107, also known as the "Reformation Symphony," was composed in 1829 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the Augsburg Confession, a key document in the Protestant Reformation. The symphony premiered on November 15, 1832, in Berlin, conducted by the composer himself. The symphony is divided into four movements. The first movement, marked "Andante - Allegro con fuoco," begins with a solemn and contemplative introduction, featuring a chorale-like theme that is reminiscent of a hymn. This theme is then developed into a lively and energetic allegro section, which features a driving rhythm and a sense of urgency. The second movement, marked "Allegro vivace," is a scherzo that is characterized by its playful and light-hearted nature. The music is full of rhythmic energy and features a lively and syncopated melody that is passed between the different sections of the orchestra. The third movement, marked "Andante," is a slow and contemplative interlude that provides a moment of reflection and introspection. The music is marked by its lyrical and expressive melodies, which are played by the strings and woodwinds. The final movement, marked "Chorale: Ein' feste Burg ist unser Gott - Andante con moto - Allegro vivace - Allegro maestoso," is a grand and triumphant finale that features a setting of Martin Luther's hymn "Ein' feste Burg ist unser Gott" (A Mighty Fortress Is Our God). The movement begins with a solemn and majestic chorale, which is then developed into a series of lively and energetic variations that showcase the full power and range of the orchestra. Overall, Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 5 is a powerful and expressive work that reflects the composer's deep religious faith and his admiration for the Protestant Reformation. The symphony is marked by its rich and varied orchestration, its lyrical melodies, and its sense of drama and urgency.

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