Felix Mendelssohn

Date of Birth: February 3, 1809

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: November 4, 1847

Biography

Felix Mendelssohn, born Jakob Ludwig Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy, was a German composer, pianist, organist, and conductor of the early Romantic period. Born into a wealthy and prominent Jewish family in Hamburg, Mendelssohn showed prodigious musical talent from an early age. He began composing music as a child and received a thorough education in classical literature and arts. His early works include symphonies, concertos, oratorios, piano music, and chamber music. Mendelssohn is perhaps best known for his overture and incidental music for Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” which includes the famous “Wedding March.” He played a crucial role in the revival of interest in the music of Johann Sebastian Bach, conducting a performance of Bach’s “St. Matthew Passion” in 1829, which had been largely neglected since the composer’s death. Mendelssohn’s influence extended beyond composition to include significant contributions to the development of musical education and the establishment of conservatories. He was a founder of the Leipzig Conservatory, where he served as a director and teacher until his death. His music is characterized by its melodic elegance, brilliant orchestration, and structural clarity.

5 Interesting Facts about Felix Mendelssohn

1. Felix Mendelssohn was a child prodigy and composed his first symphony at the age of 15.

2. He was a close friend of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, who greatly admired his music.

3. Mendelssohn was instrumental in the revival of Johann Sebastian Bach’s music in the 19th century.

4. He wrote the famous “Wedding March” from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” which is still widely used in wedding ceremonies today.

5. Mendelssohn founded the Leipzig Conservatory, one of the most prestigious music schools in Europe.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Felix Mendelssohn

1. “The essence of the beautiful is unity in variety.”

2. “Even if, in the end, I had to leave music, I would continue to compose in my head.”

3. “The heart must be engaged before the hand.”

4. “Nothing is more difficult than talking about music.”

5. “Music cannot be expressed in words, not because it is vague but because it is more precise than words.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While it is challenging to convert historical figures’ finances into modern terms, Felix Mendelssohn came from a wealthy family and enjoyed financial stability throughout his life. His highest net worth, adjusted for modern inflation, would likely be in the millions.

Children

Felix Mendelssohn had five children with his wife Cécile Charlotte Sophie Jeanrenaud: 1. Carl Mendelssohn Bartholdy (1838–1897) 2. Marie Mendelssohn Bartholdy (1839–1897) 3. Paul Mendelssohn Bartholdy (1841–1880) 4. Lili Mendelssohn Bartholdy (1845–1910) 5. Felix August Mendelssohn Bartholdy (1843–1851)