Klarinet Archive - Posting 000073.txt from 1997/07

From: "Dan Leeson: LEESON@-----.edu>
Subj: RE: Mendelssohn Symphony #5 "Reformation"
Date: Wed, 2 Jul 1997 16:07:11 -0400

> From: MX%"klarinet@-----.71
> Subj: Mendelssohn Symphony #5 "Reformation"

> We had our first rehearsal of this piece (which I have not played before)
> last night. The first, third and fourth movements are in C; the second
> movement is in Bb. I found this rather curious and wonder if anyone had
> any speculations (or actual facts!) regarding the choice of instruments.
> I checked the library computer and it is op. 107, so would have been
> composed after 1840. Also, it follows the 3rd "Scottish" and 4th
> "Italian" symphonies, which are definitely Romantic in nature. I didn't
> find the piece particularly inspiring or thrilling, esp. as compared to
> the previous 2 works. The last movement is based on the Bach chorale "Ein
> Feste Burg is unser Gott" (Cantata #80, the other work on the program). I
> plan to do more research into this and listen to a recording over the
> weekend, but would be interested to hear from anyone who has first-hand
> experience with this piece.

Jacqueline, I am not quite sure what it is that would interest you.
I've played the piece a few times and feel that the last movement
is politically focused and a statement by Mendelssohn about his
religion. As for the choice of instruments, what is it that
troubles you about three movements in C and one in B-flat. The Schubert
9 has three movements in C and one in A, so what's the concern?

>
> Jacqueline Eastwood
> University of Arizona/Arizona Opera Orchestra
> eastwooj@-----.edu
>
=======================================
Dan Leeson, Los Altos, California
Rosanne Leeson, Los Altos, California
leeson@-----.edu
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