Mendelssohn Italian Symphony

Question 1

Mendelssohn’s background?

Answer 1

1809-47
German
Studied J.S Bach and Mozart
Went on Grand Tours around Europe
A linking composer between classical style and romantic aesthetic

Question 2

What is romanticism?

Answer 2

Link to isolation and natural beauty
Imagination is superior to reason
Fascination with the past (ruins, etc.)

Question 3

Mendelssohns classical influences?

Answer 3

Four movement symphonies
Mainly diatonic harmonies
Regular harmonic rhythms and phrasing
Use of sonata form, minuet and trio form and binary form

Question 4

Mendelssohns romantic influences?

Answer 4

Melodies are lyrical and orchestrated to create beauty over regular phrasing
A freer understanding of sonata form (especially the recapitualtion)
Contrapuntal textures similar to Bach and Mozart
Orchestra treated as a colour pallete rather than each family having a rigid structure

Question 5

Why was the Italian written?

Answer 5

1830-1831 Mendelssohn travelled to Italy and the music represents his travels

Question 6

The Italian’s premiere?

Answer 6

London Philharmonic in London
Mendelssohn conducted (unusual)
Well-recieved
Only published after his death

Question 7

Symphony Orchestration?

Answer 7

2222 2200 Timpani and Strings

Question 8

Bar number of false reprise?

Answer 8

Bar 285

Question 9

Bar number of third theme in development?

Answer 9

Bar 225

Question 10

How long is the coda?

Answer 10

77 bars long