Dresden celebrates a magnificent performance of Mendelssohn's Elias!

Dresden celebrates a magnificent performance of Mendelssohn's Elias!

An unforgettable musical event was celebrated in the Hofkirche in Dresden on November 10, 2025: the performance of Felix Mendelssohn's oratorio “Elias”. Around 130 musicians, including the talented Dresden Kapellknaben as well as a 90-member choir and 40 musicians from the Saxon State Orchestra, contributed to a thrilling experience and once again demonstrated the great potential of classical music.

What is particularly noteworthy is that this was the first performance of “Elias” in the cathedral and for the band boys. Under the direction of conductor Christian J. Bonath and with rousing soloists such as Felix Rohleder in the role of Elias and Oliver Zifei Liu as a boy, the audience experienced a two and a half hour performance that was not only musically but also emotionally exciting.

A masterpiece by Mendelssohn

Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy, born on February 3, 1809 in Hamburg, was one of the most important composers of the early 19th century. Known for his regenerative influences on music, his work is still valued by many admirers today. His most famous compositions include the overture and subsequent music to “A Midsummer Night's Dream,” the “Italian” and “Scottish Symphonies,” and the oratorios “St. Paul” and “Elijah” - the latter premiered in Birmingham in 1846 and represents Mendelssohn's mastery of oratorio composition. Wikipedia reports that Mendelssohn was also considered a musical prodigy and gave his first solo concert at the age of nine.

At the performance of “Elias” in Dresden, the Old Testament prophet Elias is portrayed as a fighting hero and at the same time as a broken person; a topic that deeply moved many listeners. Chaplain Michael Kreher took on the task of explaining this complex figure during the break and giving the listeners an even better understanding of the performance.

An emotional evening

The atmosphere in the crowded court church was otherworldly. The band boys and the audience were also visibly moved and overwhelmed by the performance. After the final chorus, the audience rose to several minutes of applause, celebrating the performers and rewarding their hard work. A very special moment for the young musicians, who enthusiastically wrote autographs in the program after the performance.

The oratorio “Elias” not only summarizes the cultural highlights of the Christian tradition through its impressive music and profound lyrics, but also allows listeners and performers to share the complex emotions. Britannica highlights that Mendelssohn's music had a great influence not only in Germany but also abroad.

Overall, the performance was a fantastic example of how much music can connect and inspire. The passionate performances by choirs and soloists created an experience that will not soon be forgotten.