GOETHE RESONANCE
BEETHOVEN, MENDELSSOHN & GOETHE
November 20 at The Players in Gramercy
Goethe Resonance: Beethoven & Mendelssohn
Thursday, November 20, 7:30PM
TRIO BOHÉMO
Beethoven Piano Trio No. 3 in C minor, Op. 1 No. 3
Mendelssohn Piano Trio No. 1 in D minor, Op. 49
Illustrated talk by Ulrich Baer
The Players
16 Gramercy Park South, New York
Did you know that both Beethoven and Mendelssohn were deeply influenced by the genius of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe—the renowned German poet, playwright, and towering figure whose works became a cornerstone of German Romanticism? Both composers had the rare privilege of meeting Goethe in person—encounters that left a profound impression on their artistic paths.
Beethoven was notably inspired by Goethe’s novel of unrequited love and existential longing, "The Sorrows of Young Werther." Moreover, Goethe’s reflections on individualism and the role of the artist in society resonated deeply with Beethoven, who regarded himself as a revolutionary figure in music.
Felix Mendelssohn, who met Goethe as a young prodigy, was captivated by Goethe’s monumental drama "Faust"—a two-part masterpiece that took over sixty years to complete and remains one of the defining works of world literature. Mendelssohn’s settings from "Faust Part II" and the "Walpurgisnacht" scenes reveal his response to its philosophical scope and supernatural imagery.
Join us for Ulrich Bayer’s captivating introduction to Goethe’s literary and philosophical genius, followed by Trio Bohémo’s performance of two magnificent piano trios by Beethoven and Mendelssohn—superb examples of how powerfully Goethe’s spirit continued to resonate in music.
It’s More Than A Concert…
MUSIC IN CONTEXT
Music. Talk. Wine
THE PLAYERS AT GRAMERCY
Step inside one of Gramercy Park’s most storied landmarks—The Players, a private Gilded Age mansion founded by the legendary actor Edwin Booth. Its grand wood-paneled rooms, chandeliers, and portraits of stage greats create an atmosphere where history and artistry meet. For one evening only, this exclusive setting becomes the stage for music, wine, and conversation in true Aspect style—a space that feels both timeless and alive.
ILLUSTRATED TALK BY ULRICH BAER
Each Aspect concert explores music in its broader cultural and artistic context—revealing the ideas, stories, and inspirations that shaped the works we hear. Before the performance, Ulrich Baer—professor, writer, and podcaster—offers an engaging introduction that brings the evening’s theme to life. Through vivid insight and storytelling, he illuminates Goethe’s influence on Beethoven and Mendelssohn, setting the stage for the music to unfold.
COMPLIMENTARY WINE
We offer complimentary wine throughout the evening, an integral part of the warm and convivial atmosphere that defines every Aspect concert. It’s an invitation to relax, connect with fellow guests and musicians, and share in the spirit of music and conversation.