Octet for Strings and Piano Trio No. 1

Album by Felix Mendelssohn & Smetana Quartet & Janáček Quartet & Sukovo trio

The Octet for Strings (Op. 20) and the Piano Trio No. 1 (Op. 49) are chamber compositions by Felix Mendelssohn, composed in 1825 and 1839 respectively. The Octet is an early Romantic string-ensemble piece that features intricate counterpoint, buoyant string textures and an orchestral breadth for eight players, while the Piano Trio No. 1 is a later Romantic chamber work that emphasises lyrical melodies, dramatic harmonic shifts and concentrated interplay between piano and strings, reflecting Mendelssohn's development from youthful prodigy to mature composer.

First released: 21st January 2002

Tracklist

1.
String Octet in E‐Flat Major, Op. 20, MWV R20: I. Allegro moderato, ma con fuoco
14:42
2.
String Octet in E‐Flat Major, Op. 20, MWV R20: II. Andante
8:00
3.
String Octet in E‐Flat Major, Op. 20, MWV R20: III. Scherzo. Allegro leggierissimo
4:56
4.
String Octet in E‐Flat Major, Op. 20, MWV R20: IV. Presto
6:35
5.
Piano Trio No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 49, MWV Q29 “Grand Trio”: I. Molto allegro ed agitato
9:09
6.
Piano Trio No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 49, MWV Q29 “Grand Trio”: II. Andante con moto tranquillo
6:44
7.
Piano Trio No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 49, MWV Q29 “Grand Trio”: III. Scherzo. Leggiero e vivace
3:28
8.
Piano Trio No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 49, MWV Q29 “Grand Trio”: IV. Finale. Allegro assai appasionato
8:54