The Reformation Symphony was composed in 1830 for the 300th anniversary of the “Confessio Augustana”, the founding of the Lutheran confession of faith. In the fourth movement, Mendelssohn quotes, elaborates and varies artfully the Luther-chorale “Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott” [God is our fortress], erecting a musical monument to the reformer Martin Luther. After an initial confl icting reception, the Reformation Symphony meanwhile is established fi rmly in the concert repertoire.

EB 8058 is intended for performances with organ. It can also be used for the preparation of the chorus and soloists for performances with orchestra.