Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy

Felix Mendelssohn (February 3, 1809 – November 4, 1847) was a German composer, pianist, organist and conductor of the early Romantic period. He was recognized early as a musical prodigy, but his parents were cautious and did not seek to capitalise on his abilities.

Early success in Germany was followed by travel throughout Europe; Mendelssohn was particularly well received in England as a composer, conductor and soloist, and his ten visits there, during which many of his major works were premiered, form an important part of his adult career. His essentially conservative musical tastes however set him apart from many of his more adventurous musical contemporaries such as Liszt, Wagner and Berlioz.

Mendelssohn's work includes symphonies, concerti, oratorios, piano and chamber music (including his famous octet published here written at the age of sixteen!). He also had an important role in the revival of interest in the music of J. S. Bach.

Mendelssohn Octet Op 20