About this edition
Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 2 in B-flat Major, Op. 52, "Hymn of Praise," stands as one of the most ambitious and spiritually uplifting works in the symphonic repertoire. This symphony-cantata hybrid combines the architectural grandeur of Beethoven's symphonic tradition with Mendelssohn's distinctive melodic gift and deep Protestant faith, creating a work that bridges instrumental and vocal music in celebration of divine praise. The composition's unique three-movement instrumental symphony followed by an extended cantata makes it a cornerstone work for understanding Mendelssohn's mature style and the Romantic era's expansion of symphonic form.
This edition reproduces the authoritative score from Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdys Werke, Serie 14A, published by Breitkopf & Härtel in Leipzig in 1882 under the careful editorship of Julius Rietz. Rietz, who served as Mendelssohn's successor at the Leipzig Gewandhaus and was intimately familiar with the composer's intentions, oversaw this complete works edition that became the standard reference for Mendelssohn's orchestral music for generations. This Breitkopf & Härtel publication represents the scholarly rigor of 19th-century German music publishing at its finest, with meticulous attention to detail and authentic representation of Mendelssohn's original manuscript sources.
About this edition:
- Complete full orchestral score in 8.5" x 11" format
- Reproduced from the historic 1882 Breitkopf & Härtel edition
- Edited by Julius Rietz, Mendelssohn's contemporary and successor
- Clear, readable notation suitable for study and performance
- Published by Purple 4R Publishing
This edition faithfully reproduces a treasured public domain score, making Mendelssohn's magnificent "Hymn of Praise" accessible to conductors, musicians, and music lovers who seek to explore this masterwork of the Romantic symphonic tradition.
