This album features the two string quintets by Felix Mendelssohn, composed nearly two decades apart yet sharing a remarkably consistent style that reflects his lifelong affinity for chamber music.
The String Quintet No. 1 in A major, Op. 18, written in 1826 when Mendelssohn was just 17, initially included a minuet but lacked a slow movement. Six years later, following the death of his close friend and violin teacher Eduard Rietz, Mendelssohn composed the heartfelt Intermezzo “Nachruf” as a tribute, replacing the original minuet. This quintet exudes lyricism and grace, with a flowing opening movement, a scherzo of demonic intensity, and a humorous, energetic finale.
The String Quintet No. 2 in B-flat major, Op. 87, completed in 1845 during the composer’s mature years, displays more dramatic flair and structural sophistication. Mendelssohn, then at the height of his career, imbues the work with spirited energy—particularly in the exuberant first movement and the finale, whose propulsive momentum is underscored by contrapuntal development. The slow movement offers soaring melodies and rich harmonies, while the scherzo contrasts the breathless pace of the earlier quintet with a more lyrical and gentle character.
These quintets—one youthful, the other reflective of full maturity—stand as pillars of the Romantic chamber music repertoire. They are performed here by the Mendelssohn String Quartet with notable verve and insight, captured in vivid DSD sound.
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