Johann Straus II - Vergnügungszug (Pleasure Train), op. 281

Johann Strauss II , known for his waltzes and lively compositions, had a unique approach to his creative process. He consistently sought contemporary and relevant themes to serve as the driving force behind his new musical compositions. This approach ensured that his work remained fresh and connected with the audiences of his time.  One notable instance of this creative approach was the composition of this polka, composed in 1864. This piece of music was specifically crafted for a summer concert held in the picturesque Russian town of Pavlovsk. It's fascinating to note that Strauss drew inspiration for this composition from the world around him. In this case, he found it in the emerging technology of the time, namely, the steam locomotive. The composition itself is a testament to Strauss's ability to capture the essence and energy of the subject matter. The rhythm of this dance piece mirrors the rhythmic chugging and movements of the old-fashioned steam trains that were prevale
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Mendelssohn - Violin concerto in E minor, Op. 64

An image of Leipzig, the city that Mendelssohn promoted to the cultural capital of Europe and where his Violin Concerto in E minor was first presented.


Mendelssohn spent the summer of 1844 touring for a series of concerts for the eighth time in England. His holiday followed at the end of July in the small town of Bad Soden, near Frankfurt. During his stay there, he composed this Violin Concerto in E minor, Opus 64.

It premiered in Leipzig seven months later, on March 13, 1845. The concerto was performed by his friend, the eminent violinist Ferdinand David, who had assisted Mendelssohn in various technical details relating to the violin part. Mendelssohn was too ill to direct the concerto and ceded the director's job to Nils Wilhelm Gade's assistant.


Movements:

I. Allegro molto appassionato

The first movement begins with a lively but simple melody where the violin hovers over the orchestra singing cheerfully -  unusual for a minor tone. The theme develops and passes to the orchestra, while the violin plays strong sequences of chords (two strings at the same time) and arpeggio that go up and down the scale. A melody prepares the way for the introduction of the second theme. The solo violin lowers to a restrained G and the woodwinds introduce a quieter theme. This theme develops, repeats and alternates related to the first melody before a dazzling cadenza follows. Unaccompanied solo violin makes a spectacular show followed by the lively return of the two previous themes. The music rises in an impressive escalation.


II. Andante

Then follows the second movement, the slow Andante, dominated by a lyrical, dreamy and subtle melody. As at the end of the first part, the transition to the final part is achieved with great skill.


III. Allegreto non troppo - Allegro molto vivace

In the third movenemt, Allegretto non troppo - Allegro molto vivace, the music ceases but wakes up again and unfolds politely to prevent a double fanfare and some vivid decorations, with the violin lively in a particularly vigorous place.





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