| Octet in E-flat major | |
|---|---|
| by Felix Mendelssohn | |
&sq=&lang=&file=File:Octetp1.jpg) First page of the autograph manuscript | |
| Key | E-flat major |
| Opus | 20 |
| Composed | 1825 |
| Dedication | Eduard Ritz |
| Performed | 30 January 1836 |
| Duration | about 30 minutes |
| Movements | four |
| Scoring | double string quartet (4 violins, 2 violas, 2 celli) |
The String Octet in E-flat major, Op. 20, MWV R 20, was written by the 16-year-old Felix Mendelssohn during the fall of 1825 and completed on October 15.[1] Written for four violins, two violas, and two cellos, this work created a new chamber music genre. Conrad Wilson summarizes much of its reception ever since: "Its youthful verve, brilliance and perfection make it one of the miracles of nineteenth-century music."[2] This was one of the first works of Mendelssohn to be very well received.[3]
- ^ Todd, R. Larry (2003). Mendelssohn : a life in music. Library Genesis. Oxford ; New York : Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0-19-511043-2.
- ^ "Octet in E-flat major, Op. 20 - Felix Mendelssohn". www.earsense.org. Retrieved 2021-04-28.
- ^ "Felix Mendelssohn: Octet in E-flat major, op. 20, for strings (1825)". Library of Congress. Retrieved 2021-04-28.