In 1837, a lovestruck Mendelssohn composed a musical declaration of love during his honeymoon: his Second Piano Concerto — a work so passionate that family friend and fellow composer Robert Schumann felt slightly uneasy. For Cécile Jeanrenaud — the newlywed Mrs. Mendelssohn — it was a jewel she would cherish forever. The concerto’s public premiere at the Birmingham Festival was a triumph, thanks to its dramatic themes, dreamy lyricism, playful virtuosity, and sharp-witted dialogues between soloist and orchestra.
Alexander Melnikov deciphers this love letter on a historical keyboard, surrounded by the ensemble of virtuosos known as Anima Eterna Brugge. As a prelude, the fiery Piano Quartet, Op. 2, reveals how a 14-year-old Felix already mastered the art of musical seduction.
An evening of music like a perfect date: thrilling, full of surprises, and ending in a heartfelt embrace!
Program
F. Mendelssohn: Piano quartet no. 2 in F minor, opus 2 | Piano concerto nor. 2 in D minor, opus 40
Performers
Anima Eterna Brugge | Alexander Melnikov, fortepiano & artistic leader