Musical Style and Structure: The Violin Concerto in E Minor is structured in three movements, each flowing directly into the next without pause—a novel approach at the time. This continuous structure creates a cohesive narrative throughout the work:

• I. Allegro molto appassionato: The concerto opens with a passionate and intense first movement, marked by its memorable and soaring main theme introduced by the solo violin. Mendelssohn avoids the traditional orchestral introduction, instead allowing the soloist to begin almost immediately. This movement is notable for its virtuosic demands on the soloist, as well as its lyrical second theme and the dramatic interplay between the violin and orchestra.

• II. Andante: The second movement provides a lyrical contrast to the intensity of the first. It is a serene and songlike piece, with the violin weaving a beautiful, flowing melody over a gentle orchestral accompaniment. The movement’s middle section offers a brief moment of tension before returning to the tranquil opening theme.

• III. Allegretto non troppo – Allegro molto vivace: The final movement begins with a light and playful introduction that leads into a lively and joyous finale. This movement is filled with sparkling passages for the solo violin, showcasing Mendelssohn’s gift for melody and his ability to balance technical brilliance with a sense of effortless grace.