Show Synopsis:
This is part of the oratorio "Elijah" based on the Biblical narrative of Elijah, a prophet who fled Israel and encouraged many in their faith of God. He is the messenger from God for the people of Baal in a drought and later flees from Jezebel. Elijah begins to believe he is the only person faitfhul to God. He continues to prophesy and is lifted up to the heavens in a chariot of fire.
Character:
Soprano
Fun Facts:
1) The soprano part of this oratorio was written for the famous soprano Jenny Lind, with whom Mendelssohn had a close professional relationship.
2) Mendelssohn composed this piece in the same vein as Bach and Handel's oratorios.
"Hear ye, Israel, hear what the Lord speaketh: 'Oh, hadst thou heeded my commandments' Who hath believed our report! To whom is the arm of the Lord revealed!
Thus saith the Lord, the Redeemer of Israel, and His Holy One to him oppressed by tyrants, thus saith the Lord:
'I am He that comforteth. Be not afraid, for I am thy God! I will strengthen thee! Say, who art thou, that thou art afraid of a man that shall die; and forgettest the Lord thy Maker, who hath stretched forth the heavens, and laid the earth's foundations? Say, who art thou!'"