Expert: Jody Doktor - 7/11/2011

Question
This isn't exactly an opera question, but it regards singing in German.  The finale of Mendelssohn's Reformation Symphony is based on Martin Luther's "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God."  I recently found a performance on YouTube(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NELYdisXPps) which has a chorus and soloists singing it -- it's very powerful, altho it's an amateur orchestra which isn't exactly in tune.  My question is, did Mendelssohn ever write a choral version of this himself?  If so, are you aware of any recordings, either of the hymn in this arrangement or the symphony with a chorus?      Thank you!

Answer
Hello Mike,

Great question.  Unfortunately, Mendelssohn did not write a choral version of this piece himself. He composed the Reformation Symphony in 1830 to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the Ausburg Confession of 1530.  However, it wasn't actually premiered until 1832.

There are many instrumental versions of this hymn out in the world, but the only other choral/orchestral version of "Ein feste Burg" that I'm aware of is the Bach cantata #80.  If you want to hear a splendid organ fantasy version, you could look up Max Reger op. 27 on youtube.  It's pretty amazing!



Sincerely,
JODY DOKTOR