Mendelssohn, String Quintets, MWV R 21 & 33 (Breitkopf & Härtel)
Showcasing both lyricism and formal innovation, Mendelssohn’s String Quintets, MWV R 21 (A major) and R 33 (B-flat major), offer a fascinating glimpse into the composer’s evolving style and meticulous craftsmanship. Though written nearly twenty years apart, these two quintets share notable musical and structural parallels, revealing Mendelssohn’s deep affinity for the genre.
Known for his meticulous approach to revision, Mendelssohn made significant changes to both works. The A-major Quintet underwent a dramatic transformation, with a movement replaced and the order of movements shifted before its publication in 1833. The B-flat major Quintet experienced further rounds of revision, with Mendelssohn refining the work up until his final years. This Breitkopf & Härtel edition provides both the complete early and final versions of the A-major Quintet, as well as the definitive B-flat major Quintet, giving performers and scholars the rare opportunity to explore and perform both versions as independent works. The set also includes a study score alongside the parts, encouraging deeper engagement with the music.
Key Features:
- Includes both Mendelssohn string quintets: MWV R 21 (A major) and MWV R 33 (B-flat major)
- Presents the complete early and published versions of the A major Quintet
- Features the final version of the B-flat major Quintet
- Reflects Mendelssohn’s thorough revision process
- Both versions of the A major Quintet can be performed independently.
- Set includes parts and a study score for in-depth exploration.
- Breitkopf & Härtel edition