Mendelssohn's three greatest symphonies-among the most performed and best-loved in the orchestral repertoire-are presented here in one handsome,authoritative volume. This modestly priced compilation is essential for music students, conductors, and other music lovers.

Known as the "Scottish" Symphony, Symphony No. 3 in A Minor, Op. 56, was inspired by a trip to the highlands and dedicated to Queen Victoria. Its lively second movement is derived from Scottish folk music. Also inspired by the composer's travels, Symphony No. 4 in A Major, Op. 90, is commonly known as the "Italian" Symphony, and evokes the sunny peninsula's color and atmosphere. Symphony No.5 in D Major, Op. 107, called the "Reformation" Symphony, was written in 1832 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of Martin Luther's Augsburg Confession, the momentous document that formed the cornerstone of the Protestant Reformation.All three works appear here in definitive Breitkopf and Hertel editions.

           SYMPHONY NO. 3 in A ("Scottish"), Op. 56 (1841 & 1842)

I.     Introduction (Andante con moto) and Allegro un poco agitato

II.     Vivace non troppo

III.     Adagio

IV.     Allegro vivacissimo--Allegro maestoso assai

              SYMPHONY NO. 4 in A ("Italian"), Op. 90 (1833)

I.     Allegro Vivace

II.     Andante con moto

III.    Con moto moderato

IV.     Saltarello (Presto)

             SYMPHONY NO. 5 ("Reformation"), Op. 107 (1832)

I.     Andante Allegro con fuoco--Andante meno Allegro

II.     Allegro vivace

III.    Andante

IV.     Chorale: Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott

          Andante con moto---Allegro vivace---Allegro maestoso