February’s composer of the month is Felix Mendelssohn.
Born: February 3, 1809
Died: November 4, 1847
Five facts:
• The composer's full name is Jakob Ludwig Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy.
• Mendelssohn is often considered to be the greatest child prodigy after Mozart. He composed around 50 pieces by age 12, his first published work was written by age 13, and his first symphony at 15.
• The composer was a friend of Queen Victoria. The Queen chose Mendelssohn's "Wedding March" for her daughter's wedding.
• Felix's sister, Fanny, was also a composer. In fact, some believe that there are pieces attributed to Felix that were actually written by Fanny.
• Mendelssohn played a vital role in reviving the music of J.S. Bach in Europe.
Three important works:
• String Octet in E-flat major, Op. 20 (1825)
• Symphony No. 4, Op. 90 "Italian" (1833)
• Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 (1844)
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