Felix Mendelssohn

The Profile

Felix Mendelssohn (1809–1847) was a German composer, pianist, organist, and conductor of the early Romantic era. A prodigy who balanced classical clarity with romantic expressiveness, he helped revive interest in J. S. Bach (notably the 1829 St. Matthew Passion performance) and founded the Leipzig Conservatory in 1843.

Born in Hamburg; died in Leipzig; of Jewish heritage and raised in the Protestant faith; came from a wealthy family; widely traveled; renowned for works including the Violin Concerto, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Songs Without Words, and symphonies such as the Scottish, Italian, and Reformation.

Two enthusiastic reviews explore Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 3 “Scottish,” No. 4 “Italian,” and No. 5 “Reformation.” They highlight his blend of classical poise and romantic intensity, travel-born imagery, and Protestant underpinnings. Recommended recordings include Abbado/LSO and a sought-after Bernstein version. Overall praise is high, with the Reformation often deemed underrated.