Mendelssohn Violin Concerto in E Minor, Op. 64 II. Andante

Yuka Eguchi Violin
James Judd Conductor

Gathering limits prevented the NZSO from performing to audiences for much of 2021, but we wanted to keep the band playing together and provide music for people at home. We recorded a number of great works during this time under the baton of Music Director Emeritus James Judd and with the support of broadcast partner RNZ Concert.

This is one of these works, and we hope it is of interest to you.

The second movement of Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto, titled Andante, is a beautiful and emotional piece that contrasts with the more lively first and third movements. In this movement, the violin plays a lyrical, singing melody, accompanied by soft, flowing strings, creating a peaceful and reflective atmosphere. The music feels calm and intimate, almost like a gentle conversation between the violin and the orchestra. Mendelssohn’s use of harmony and delicate rhythms helps express a sense of longing and tenderness, making this movement one of the most cherished parts of the concerto.