When in 1840 the 400^th anniversary of the invention of Gutenberg’s printing press was celebrated in Leipzig, Mendelssohn was commissioned to compose two works for the occasion. With Lobgezang, a daring cross between a cantata and a symphony, Mendelssohn confirmed his status as a composer in that city of culture.

The title 'Lobgesang', song of praise, indicates the celebratory nature of the work. The instrumental opening is followed by eleven sung movements: first meditative and mystical, then growing increasingly ecstatic. Music that, like the art of book printing, can lead us out of darkness into the light.

Flagey, Brussels Philharmonic, Vlaams Radio Koor