Elias, Mendelssohn

Tuesday, November 25, 2025, 8:30 PM

Estimated Run Time: 2 hours 15 minutes, without intermission

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

Composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1846, ten years after Paulus, which had been a huge success, Elias is one of the finest examples of the Romantic oratorio. The libretto is based on the biblical account of the prophet Elijah in the First Book of Kings, as well as several other biblical texts (Isaiah, Psalms, etc.). A colorful character, full of fire and zeal, Elijah progresses throughout the oratorio in his knowledge of himself and of God. In addition to the protagonist, the score gives pride of place to the choir. In this respect, it follows in the direct tradition of the great oratorios of Handel, but also of Bach, whose St. Matthew Passion Mendelssohn had rediscovered fifteen years earlier. Berlioz himself recognized the beauty of this captivating fresco, readily praising its “indescribable harmonic sumptuousness.

Photo by ©MC Bertin

Program

Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847)
Elias op. 70 MWV A 25

Cast

Conservatoire de Paris orchestra
Chœur de l’Armée française
Emilie Fleury, choir master
Maîtrise Notre-Dame de Paris
Henri Chalet, choir master
David Reiland, conductor