Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy 
Letters of Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy from 1833 to 1847 

The book ‘Letters of Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy from 1833 to 1847’ offers readers a unique insight into the personal and professional life of the renowned composer Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy. The letters showcase Mendelssohn’s keen observations, literary finesse, and deep emotions, providing a glimpse into the cultural and social context of the Romantic era. Through these correspondences, readers can appreciate Mendelssohn’s relationships with fellow musicians, his thoughts on composition, and his travels across Europe. Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy, a leading figure in the Romantic music movement, was known for his prodigious talent and innovative compositions. His letters not only reveal his musical genius but also his wit, charm, and dedication to his craft. It is evident that his experiences and interactions with other artists greatly influenced his work, making this collection a valuable resource for music historians and enthusiasts alike. I highly recommend ‘Letters of Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy from 1833 to 1847’ to anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of Mendelssohn’s life and music. This book provides a rare glimpse into the mind of a musical genius and sheds light on the artistic and cultural landscape of the 19th century.

About the author

Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy (1809–1847), known primarily for his prolific contributions to music as a composer, pianist, and conductor of the early Romantic period, also left behind a treasure of written correspondence. His literary output, though overshadowed by his musical compositions, provides a window into the intellect and sensibilities of one of the 19th century’s most refined artistic minds. Born Jakob Ludwig Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy in Hamburg, Germany, he was part of a notable Jewish family; his grandfather Moses Mendelssohn was a prominent philosopher. Felix was a prodigious talent from a young age, evidencing not only extraordinary musical ability but also a keen intellect and a facility with language. His ‘Letters from 1833 to 1847’ offer a glimpse into his personal world, articulating his insights on culture, art, and the people he encountered during his extensive travels across Europe. These letters are treasured for their eloquent reflection of the Romantic era’s artistic ethos, their intimate tone, and their vivid portrayal of a Europe in flux. They complement Mendelssohn’s musical legacy, which includes works such as the ‘Hebrides Overture’, ‘Scottish’ and ‘Italian’ Symphonies, and the incidental music for ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, underscoring his role as a pioneering figure in the cultural landscape of his time.