Mendelssohn composed the first of his two piano trios in 1839 at the age of 20. In our first season, WWCMF presented the second piano trio in C minor, Op.66. Now that we are celebrating our tenth season, it’s high time we played the first piano trio in D minor, Op. 49.

At risk of getting lost in all these numbers is the simple truth that young Mendelssohn conceived music of astonishing originality and beauty. Possessed of sharp wit and by contrast, ardent tenderness, Mendelssohn’s Op. 49 has been a staple of the chamber music repertoire since its initial performance. The work showcases both a virtuoso’s command of the piano and the kind of spacious lyricism that would ultimately manifest itself in Mendelssohn’s Songs Without Words.

Founder and Artistic Director, Timothy Christie, will lead a detailed exploration and performance with three world-class festival artists: Maria Sampen, violin; Sally Singer, cello; and Thomas Rosenkranz, piano.

Please note that this performance is at the production facility of A. Morell Wines at 1489 West Rose Street. 

Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847)

PIANO TRIO IN D MINOR, OP. 49

I. Molto allegro ed agitato
II. Andante con moto tranquillo
III. Scherzo: Leggiero e vivace
IV. Finale: Allegro assai appassionato

WWCMF acknowledges the generous support of the Walla Walla Piano Group in providing the Steinway Model B piano for this performance. Bravo, and thank you!

Artists: Thomas Rosenkranz, piano; Maria Sampen, violin; and Sally Singer Tuttle, cello.