“I would give away all my works if only once I had succeeded in writing an oeuvre such as the Hebrides Overture.” These words of Johannes Brahms echo the profound impact of Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy. We stand before the Mendelssohn-Haus. It is located at Goldschmidtstrasse 12 in Leipzig. This house was Mendelssohn’s final residence. He lived here until his death in 1847.
The Mendelssohn-Haus is more than just a building. It is a portal into the life and work of a musical genius. Mendelssohn was a composer, conductor, and cultural figure. He significantly influenced Leipzig’s musical landscape. The house provides an authentic glimpse into his world.
In 1845, Mendelssohn moved into this late classicist house with his family. The second floor apartment became his sanctuary. Here, he composed, entertained, and lived. Today, the restored rooms reflect the Biedermeier style. This was the popular design during his time.
Imagine the sounds that once filled these rooms. Mendelssohn’s music, lively conversations, and the laughter of his children. His daughter Elisabeth was born here. He shared the role of director of the Gewandhaus concerts with Niels Gade from 1845 to 1846. He also completed his famous oratorio Elijah. Its premiere was in Birmingham, England in 1846.
The Mendelssohn-Haus museum displays letters, music scores, and watercolors by Mendelssohn. These items offer insights into his creative process and personal life. The music salon remains a venue for concerts. Just like in Mendelssohn’s time.
Mendelssohn’s influence extended beyond composing. He served as the director of the Gewandhaus Orchestra. He improved the orchestra’s status. Mendelssohn shaped the role of the modern conductor. He used a baton and advocated for better pay for musicians. In 1843, he founded the Leipzig Conservatory of Music. It is Germany’s oldest university school of music.
The museum also highlights Fanny Hensel. She was Mendelssohn’s talented older sister. Fanny was a gifted composer and pianist. Despite facing societal limitations, she pursued her musical passions. The third floor galleries showcase her life and work. Visitors can listen to her piano cycle Das Jahr.
The International Kurt Masur Institute is on the third floor. It promotes cultural understanding through music. The Mendelssohn-Haus survived World War II bombing. However, it faced demolition until Kurt Masur intervened.
The Mendelssohn-Haus hosts weekly chamber music concerts. These concerts allow visitors to experience music in the historic salon. Special programs are available for children and school groups. The museum is part of the Notenspur. It is a music trail that includes the Bach Museum and St. Thomas Church.
Leaving the Mendelssohn-Haus, one cannot help but feel connected to Felix Mendelssohn. His legacy lives on through his music. His commitment to cultural enrichment continues to inspire. The Mendelssohn-Haus stands as a testament to his enduring impact on music and society.