Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto premieres in Leipzig

Background. Mendelssohn, a German composer of the early Romantic era, wrote the Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64, specifically for Ferdinand David. Although conceived in 1838, the work took six years to complete. The autograph score was dated 16 September 1844, but Mendelssohn continued to seek advice from David until the eventual premiere in 1845.

Premiere. The concerto was first performed in Leipzig on 13 March 1845 at the Gewandhaus. Ferdinand David, who had become the first professor of violin at the Leipzig Conservatory in 1843, served as the soloist. Mendelssohn did not conduct on that occasion; he first conducted the concerto on 23 October 1845, again with David as soloist.

Collaboration. Mendelssohn maintained close contact with Ferdinand David during the composition process, seeking his advice until the premiere. David, a prominent violinist and educator, was instrumental in the work's development. The premiere solidified their professional relationship, with David performing the solo part in Leipzig.