Mendelssohn – Wedding March from A Midsummer Night’s Dream
The “Wedding March” is one of the most famous ceremonial pieces in the world, instantly recognized as the music that accompanies countless wedding ceremonies. Its origin lies in the incidental music that German composer Felix Mendelssohn wrote for Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. With its festive and triumphant sound, the piece has become an enduring symbol of joyous new beginnings.
Overview of the Piece
The “Wedding March” was composed in 1842 as part of the incidental music for A Midsummer Night’s Dream. In the play, it is performed during the wedding scene. The piece opens with a brilliant fanfare and unfolds with a majestic and celebratory melody, perfectly capturing the spirit of festivity and grandeur.
Background of the Composition
Mendelssohn had been fascinated by Shakespeare from a young age, completing the overture to A Midsummer Night’s Dream when he was only 17. Later, at the request of King Frederick William IV of Prussia, he composed additional incidental music for the play. Among these pieces was the “Wedding March,” which would go on to become his most famous ceremonial work.
Cultural Impact
The tradition of playing the “Wedding March” at weddings began in the 19th century. A turning point came in 1858, when Princess Victoria, daughter of Queen Victoria of England, chose the piece for her marriage ceremony. This event popularized it across Europe, and from there it spread worldwide, becoming a timeless standard for weddings.
Although originally written as part of theatrical music for Shakespeare’s play, Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March” has taken on a life of its own, becoming one of the most enduring pieces of ceremonial music in history. Its jubilant, festive tone continues to mark one of life’s most significant moments—the beginning of a marriage—with splendor and dignity.
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