Symphony No. 4, “Italian” - Orchestre Métropolitain

Felix MENDELSSOHN

1809-1847

On November 1, 1830, Felix Mendelssohn arrived in Rome shortly after turning 21. Italy was an essential stop on his grand European tour, after visiting England and Scotland the year before. The young composer, inspired by Goethe, was captivated by a country he had long dreamed of seeing. It was in Rome that he began composing his Symphony No. 4 in A Major, known as the “Italian.” This work does not adhere to the style of program music, nor is it directly influenced by Italian music or folk traditions. Rather, it represents an idealized impression of Italy, which Mendelssohn associated with nature and happiness. Completed in 1833, long after his return from his travels, the symphony premiered on May 13 of the same year, performed by the London Philharmonic Society, which had commissioned it.

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.