Symphony No. 4 in A Major, Op. 90

Definition

Symphony No. 4 in A Major, Op. 90, composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1830, is often referred to as the "Italian Symphony" due to its inspiration from Mendelssohn's travels in Italy. This symphony exemplifies Mendelssohn's unique symphonic style, characterized by bright orchestration, rhythmic vitality, and lyrical themes. It reflects a blend of classical forms with Romantic expressiveness, showcasing Mendelssohn's ability to evoke the spirit of a place through music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mendelssohn composed Symphony No. 4 between 1830 and 1833, completing it after his visit to Italy, where he was inspired by the landscape and culture.
2. The symphony consists of five movements, which was uncommon for symphonic works at that time, providing a distinct structure that allowed for varied expressions.
3. The first movement opens with a vibrant theme that captures the energetic feel of Italian life, showcasing Mendelssohn's skill in creating engaging melodies.
4. The third movement is notable for its lively Scherzo, which contrasts with the lyrical second movement, demonstrating Mendelssohn's balance of different musical moods.
5. Mendelssohn premiered Symphony No. 4 in London in 1833, and it quickly became one of his most popular works, celebrated for its orchestral color and rhythmic joy.

Review Questions

• How does Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 4 reflect the characteristics of Romanticism in music?
  • Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 4 embodies Romanticism through its expressive themes and emotional depth. The symphony captures the essence of Italy through its lively rhythms and vibrant orchestration, which were significant aspects of Romantic music that sought to evoke strong emotions and depict landscapes or experiences. Additionally, Mendelssohn's lyrical melodies resonate with the Romantic ideal of individual expression and connection to nature.
• Discuss the structural innovations found in Symphony No. 4 compared to typical symphonic forms of its time.
  • Symphony No. 4 features an unusual five-movement structure that sets it apart from the traditional four-movement form commonly used in symphonies during the early 19th century. This extra movement allows for greater variety in musical expression and mood shifts throughout the work. The inclusion of a lively Scherzo as the third movement highlights Mendelssohn's creativity and willingness to push the boundaries of classical symphonic forms while maintaining coherence throughout the piece.
• Evaluate how Symphony No. 4 in A Major showcases Mendelssohn's mastery of orchestration and thematic development.
  • Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 4 serves as a prime example of his exceptional orchestration skills and thematic development. He expertly combines different instrument groups to create rich textures that enhance the emotional impact of the music. The themes are skillfully developed throughout the movements, with variations that maintain interest while retaining their original character. This mastery contributes to the symphony's lasting popularity and showcases Mendelssohn's innovative approach within the Romantic tradition.

Related terms

Romanticism: An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, nature, and individualism, influencing music and the arts during the late 18th to mid-19th century.

Orchestration: The method of arranging music for performance by an orchestra, including the choice of instruments and the way they interact.

Lyrical Theme: A melodic idea that expresses emotion and is often characterized by a song-like quality, commonly found in Romantic-era compositions.