Composer of the Week - Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847) - A Charmed Childhood

Donald Macleod explores Mendelssohn's formative years, leading up to an unprecedented chamber masterpiece - the Octet in E flat. Mendelssohn grew up in a wealthy, privileged environment, and his musical talent was nurtured by his parents and a series of distinguished teachers. The result - a prolific number of accomplished works by the age of 16. Part of Radio 3's Composers of the Year 2009 season. Leicht und luftig (Seven Characteristic Pieces, Op 7) Benjamin Frith (piano) Naxos 8.553541 - Tr 10 String Symphony No 1 Concerto Koln Teldec 4509-98435-2 - CD1 Trs 4-6 Bogy's Aria (Die Beiden Padagogen) Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau (bass-baritone) Munchener Rundfunkorchester Heinz Wallberg (conductor) CPO 9995502 - CD1 Tr 10 Octet in E flat, Op 20 Royal String Quartet Psophos Quartet BBC Recording.