11th Symphony Concert of the Hof Symphony Orchestra – A Midsummer Night's Dream

A Midsummer Night's Dream in Hof – Mendelssohn at the Festsaal of the Freiheitshalle

An evening full of poetry, precision, and great emotion: The Hof Symphony Orchestra concludes its 2025/26 season with a Mendelssohn program that lets the sound colors shimmer. On Friday, July 10, 2026, the orchestra, chief conductor Martijn Dendievel, and soloist Alexander Melnikov will transform the Festsaal of the Freiheitshalle into a stage for romantic masterpieces. Doors open at 6:00 PM, the concert introduction starts at 6:30 PM, and the concert begins at 7:30 PM.

Sound Poetry and Orchestration: A Midsummer Night's Dream Awakens

The overture to A Midsummer Night's Dream – a stroke of genius by the then 17-year-old Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy – opens the evening with shimmering woodwind colors, buoyant rhythms, and fine orchestration. The famous fairy magic meets dense string carpets and precise synchronization between stand and podium – the live atmosphere carries the sparkling motifs far through the Festsaal.

Virtuosity with Character: Alexander Melnikov in Piano Concerto No. 2

In the d-minor Piano Concerto Op. 40, pianist Alexander Melnikov ignites the oft-quoted piano fireworks: a brilliant attack, delicate phrasing, chamber music cooperation with the orchestral sound. Known for historically informed perspectives, Melnikov shapes the solo voice transparently and rhythmically pointed – a concert experience that combines technique and expression.

Finale with Vision: The Reformation Symphony

After the intermission, Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 5 in d-minor Op. 107 unfolds its dramatic power. Chief conductor Martijn Dendievel focuses the lines, breathes with the phrases, and layers the dynamics with controlled conducting. In the finale, Luther's chorale A Mighty Fortress Is Our God shines – solemnly, without pathos, supported by a homogeneous brass balance and an audience atmosphere that makes every crescendo palpable.

Space, Acoustics, Arrival: Best Conditions for Live Classical Music

The Festsaal of the Freiheitshalle offers clear sightlines, concentrated acoustics, and comfortable tiered seating. The central location facilitates arrival via A9, A93, and A72; numerous parking spaces lie directly at the venue. Barrier-free access, elevators, designated seats, and wheelchair-accessible sanitary facilities ensure an inclusive concert experience.

Conclusion

Hof Symphony Orchestra, Dendievel, and Melnikov – three strong names for a brilliant season finale. Those who love romantic sound speech, precise ensemble culture, and vibrant stage dramaturgy will experience an evening that resonates. Secure your tickets early for this special classical highlight.

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Sources:

• Hof Symphony Orchestra – Concerts & Tickets
• Hof Symphony Orchestra – Ticket Service and Prices
• 100% Hof – Event Entry 11th Symphony Concert
• Freiheitshalle Hof – Festsaal Facts & Figures
• Freiheitshalle Hof – Arrival and Parking
• Freiheitshalle Hof – Accessibility
• Martijn Dendievel – Official Website, Biography
• harmonia mundi – Artist Profile Alexander Melnikov
• Badische Zeitung Ticket – Event Entry