Felix Mendelssohn

Felix Mendelssohn (1809–1847) was a prodigiously talented composer, pianist, and conductor who played a vital role in shaping early Romantic music. Raised in a cultured and intellectually rich environment, Mendelssohn combined Classical clarity with Romantic expressiveness in works that are elegant, lyrical, and finely balanced.

He was instrumental in reviving interest in Johann Sebastian Bach’s music, most notably through his landmark 1829 performance of the St. Matthew Passion. Mendelssohn’s own compositions—including symphonies, concertos, chamber music, choral works, and the beloved Songs Without Words for piano—remain admired for their grace, craftsmanship, and enduring musical beauty.