Mendelssohn & Korngold: From Prodigy to Master

Gemma New, conductor
Geneva Lewis, violin
San Diego Symphony Orchestra

MENDELSSOHN: Overture and Nocturne from A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 21 & 61
KORNGOLD: Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 35
MENDELSSOHN: Symphony No. 4 in A Major, Op. 90, "Italian"

People have long been fascinated with exceptional talent and what prodigies represent about human potential. This program celebrates the brilliance of two extraordinary prodigies—Felix Mendelssohn and Erich Korngold—whose talents shaped the course of classical and film music. Mendelssohn dazzled the world at just 17 with the magical sparkle of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and his vibrant “Italian” Symphony—met with thunderous applause at its London premiere—bursts with color, joy and rhythmic energy. Korngold, declared a genius by Mahler at age 9, brought his gift to Hollywood, where he revolutionized film scoring. His sweeping, operatic style won two Oscars and later shaped his Violin Concerto, blending classical depth with Hollywood drama. It's a program of vivid storytelling brought to life through rich orchestration and expressive musical detail.

Please note: the repertoire of this concert has changed from previously published materials.