Composed in 1844 and first performed the next year in England, this work is much like a miniature cantata with three distinct, contrasting movements and a recitative connecting the last two. The piece begins with the simple pleading of the soprano, “Hear my prayer.” Mendelssohn’s subtle changes of harmony and melody indicate alternating moments of optimism and loneliness. This suddenly gives away to the middle Allegro movement where the fear and despair rise to a climax. After a final plea in the recitative (“With horror overwhelmed”), the work arrives at the great final movement, “O for the wings of a dove!” This exceptionally beautiful music evokes a far-away place of peace and rest. We were so very privileged to have the great star of the Metropolitan Opera, Hei-Kyung Hong, as our soloist. You can’t imagine what it was like to stand right in front of her during the recording sessions and hear that glorious voice! Thanks, Hei-Kyung, and thanks Barbara for requesting this!

– Dennis Keene

MENDELSSOHN Hear My Prayer

Voices of Ascension
Dennis Keene, Artistic Director
Hei-Kyung Hong, Soprano
Mark Kruczek, Organist

from the Delos recording Hear my Prayer ℗ 2004 Delos
The singers in this performance are represented by the American Guild of Musical Artists, AFL-CIO.