Also played at the same concert was Mendelssohn’s 'Hebridian
Overture' (Die Hebriden). I had heard this piece a couple of time before, but
the more I listen to it the more I release it’s a stunning development of 2 very
simple themes to create a piece lasting around 10 minutes.
The first theme introduced at the beginning by the lower
strings is meant to depict Fingal’s Cave on the island of Staffa; after
seeing the cave on a visit to Scotland, Mendelssohn wrote this opening motif
down on a postcard and sent it to his sister Fanny. The first time the motif is
introduced it is played legato in a descending phrase. Throughout the piece
Mendelssohn then develops it; the violins introduce an inverted version of it
in response to the opening phrase. He uses it to build sequences as it is
passed round the orchestra; each instrument adding a different colouring to it.
He changes the articulation and tempo to change the feel and mood of the piece
too.
The second theme is a scalic semiquaver motif which is meant
to depict the rolling ocean. Mendelsohn changes the dynamics and range of the
motif to go from flat, calm water to a more violent, choppy scene. He also adds
accents to the motif, perhaps to symbolise breaking or crashing waves.
I think it’s a very effective piece, with many dramatic
elements. As stated above, I think it’s also a brilliant example of how to
develop a couple of short motifs into an entire, rounded piece.
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