The first movement exudes a heroic and impetuous energy, with a compelling theme accompanied by pulsing chords. This rhythmic energy runs through the entire piece, both in the appearance of a more lyrical second theme and in the ingenious development, which blends these two ideas with a third theme in fugato style. The slow movement, in the form of a march, features a melody akin to a pilgrim’s chant, repeated multiple times with counterpoint. Graceful and charming, the following minuet reflects Mendelssohn’s Classical ideals. Its central section, introduced by a horn call, evokes the pastoral tone typical of early Romanticism. The final movement is in a minor key, unusual for a major-key symphony, with an irresistible dance-like character. Combining elements of the saltarello and the tarantella, it sweeps the listener into a whirlwind of frenzied motion, culminating in a final burst of crisp, emphatic chords.
