An invaluable single-disc survey of Mendelssohn’s organ music, including not only works originally conceived for the instrument but also arrangements to display the majestic tonal possibilities of a fine Dutch instrument as well as the virtuosity of one of the most talented young organists in the Netherlands. Bach was a central figure in the musical education of the prodigious young Mendelssohn, and he continued to expand the family’s collection of the Leipzig master’s organ music. However, he was also gifted at the art of improvisation which is central to the organist’s training, and he later wrote out several of his best improvisations as compositions for posterity. His organ music abounds in the elegance and impetuous vitality which characterise his music in general, while his lifelong immersion in the music of Bach is evident in both the counterpoint and the chorale movements to be found throughout his organ sonatas.
Works:
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Mendelssohn: A Midsummer Night's Dream: Scherzo
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Mendelssohn: Allegro in D minor/major
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Mendelssohn: Andante sostenuto in F minor
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Mendelssohn: Fugue in E minor
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Mendelssohn: Little Pieces (3)
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Mendelssohn: Organ Sonata No. 3 in A major, Op. 65 No. 3
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Mendelssohn: Organ Sonata No. 4 in B flat major, Op. 65 No. 4
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Mendelssohn: Organ Sonata No. 6 in D minor, Op. 65 No. 6
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Mendelssohn: Paulus, Op. 36: Overture