Mendelssohn's Elijah

Elijah is arguably Felix Mendelssohn’s greatest masterpiece and certainly the best known of his works. First conceived in 1837 but not performed until shortly before the composer's premature death in 1847, this towering oratorio takes its inspiration from baroque masterworks such as Handel's Messiah and the Passions of J S Bach. Unusual for its innovative and dramatic treatment of epic biblical themes which contrast with the humanity and humility of the prophet whose story it tells, it changed the form of the sacred oratorio forever. Following the premiere, The Times commented: 'Never was there a more complete triumph - never a more thorough and speedy recognition of a great work of art.'

Singing the title role for the first time is the exceptional bass-baritone Alaric Green, recently heard with North London Chorus in Dvořák’s Stabat Mater. Fellow ENO Harewood Artist Madeline Boreham takes on the soprano role of The Widow, and mezzo-soprano Clare Presland sings An Angel and The Queen. Making his first appearance with us is the winner of the 2024 Kathleen Ferrier Award, tenor Matthew McKinney. Described in this November’s Opera as 'on a fast track to stardom', Matthew sings the roles of Obadiah and Ahab, while the choir appears as The People, Angels and Priests of Baal.

We will be accompanied by our regular partners, the Meridian Sinfonia, in a new chamber orchestration by Joachim Linckelmann.