Felix Mendelssohn(1809-1847)
German violinist, pianist, conductor, and romantic composer. Preserved Classical ideals of harmony and form within Romantic themes. From a wealthy family, he was a protégé of Goethe and received the best musical education available. Impeccable craftsman.
"Though everything else may appear shallow and repulsive, even the smallest task in music is so absorbing, and carries us so far away from town, country, earth, and all worldly things, that it is truly a blessed gift of God."
“The essence of the beautiful is unity in variety."
Best known works: Songs without Words, Reformation Symphony, Scottish Symphony, Violin Concerto, organ sonatas, Fingal's Cave, Midsummer Night's Dream (suite)