Discovering Mendelssohn

July 2023
Christian Li, the young and talented violinist who shot to fame in 2018 by winning the Junior Category of the Yehudi Menuhin Competition at just ten years old, returns with a captivating new album, “Discovering Mendelssohn,” released by Decca Classics. In this collection of works, Li pays homage to composer Felix Mendelssohn, presenting pieces that hold special significance in the composer’s heart.

The album opens with Mendelssohn’s cherished “On Wings of Song,” tenderly arranged for strings and harp. Li’s performance is nothing short of mesmerizing as he weaves his way through the piece, tastefully embellishing the melody and infusing it with genuine emotion. His flawless technique and seamless phrasing reveal a level of artistry beyond his years.

Moving on to Mendelssohn’s “Rondo Capriccioso, Op. 14,” accompanied by Lawrence Matheson and arranged by Abram Yampolsky, Li impresses with his warm and heartfelt interpretation. The Rondo comes alive with Li’s nimble and virtuosic playing, captivating listeners with his mature approach and extraordinary skill. The bravura coda leaves a lasting impression, a testament to Li’s remarkable talent.

In the iconic “Serenade” from Schubert’s “Schwanengesang,” Li and his accompanying artist deliver a poignant and soul-stirring rendition. Mischa Elman’s arrangement provides the perfect backdrop for Li’s expressive and sensitive performance, taking us on a nostalgic journey through the heartfelt song.

Li’s partnership with pianist James Baillieu comes to the fore in Mendelssohn’s “Spring Song,” Op. 62. Together, they breathe life into this popular piece, infusing it with joy and jubilation. Li’s endearing performance captures the essence of spring, leaving us uplifted and captivated.

The centerpiece of the album is Mendelssohn’s “Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64,” where Li joins forces with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra conducted by Sir Andrew Davis. This concerto, a favorite of audiences and violinists alike, showcases Li’s mastery as he effortlessly navigates its intricacies. With warmth, passion, and an unwavering sense of musicality, Li’s interpretation is nothing short of remarkable, making this a standout recording that is sure to be treasured by classical music aficionados.

Li’s collaboration with cellist David Berlin in J.S. Bach’s “St Matthew Passion” adds a soulful dimension to “Erbame Dich, mein Gott.” The arrangement effectively conveys the poignant emotion of the piece, and the interplay between the violin and cello is beautifully executed.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “Violin Sonata No. 21, K 304” finds Li and Baillieu in perfect harmony once again. The reflective and emotive performance is a testament to their musical connection, delivering a moving and memorable rendition of this work.

The album concludes with Mendelssohn’s delightful “Venetian Gondola Song” from “Songs Without Words.” Li’s collaboration with guitarist Xuefei Yang creates a delightful soundscape, capturing the essence of Venice as imagined by the composer. This charming and delightful piece is the perfect ending to an enchanting musical journey.

While initially skeptical of combining a well-known concerto with smaller pieces, often considered as encores or salon music, the album’s flow works splendidly. Christian Li’s artistry impresses with his assured technique, passion, agility, and grace, while also revealing a depth of musical feeling and maturity well beyond his years. This album is a must-have addition to any classical music collection, and it firmly establishes Christian Li as a rising star in the world of classical violinists. Bravo to this remarkable young artist!