Mendelssohn's Oratorio 'Elijah' Performed by New York Choral Artists

Acclaimed vocalists featured in recording of Mendelssohn's epic biblical work.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:00am

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An abstract, minimalist composition of jagged, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of blue, green, and orange, conceptually representing the dramatic biblical story and choral performance of Mendelssohn's Elijah.Mendelssohn's sweeping oratorio 'Elijah' is brought to life in a new recording by the acclaimed New York Choral Artists.NYC Today

One of Felix Mendelssohn's largest and most ambitious compositions, the oratorio Elijah brings to life the story of the Old Testament prophet. In a new recording, the New York Choral Artists perform the work under the direction of conductor Joseph Flummerfelt, featuring a cast of acclaimed guest vocalists.

Why it matters

Mendelssohn's Elijah is considered one of the composer's masterpieces and a landmark of the Romantic oratorio tradition. This new recording showcases the work's dramatic power and emotional depth with a talented ensemble of soloists.

The details

The oratorio Elijah was composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1846 and is based on the biblical story of the prophet Elijah from the Old Testament books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings. The work is scored for multiple vocal soloists, chorus, and orchestra, and is known for its sweeping, cinematic musical style.

  • The recording was released on April 16, 2026.

The players

New York Choral Artists

A professional choral ensemble based in New York City that frequently collaborates with major orchestras and conductors.

Joseph Flummerfelt

An acclaimed American conductor who has led the New York Choral Artists for over two decades.

Twyla Robinson

A renowned American soprano who performs as a soloist in the recording.

Alice Coote

A celebrated British mezzo-soprano who performs as a soloist in the recording.

Allan Clayton

A critically acclaimed British tenor who performs as a soloist in the recording.

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What they’re saying

“Mendelssohn's Elijah is a towering work that demands the utmost artistry and emotional commitment from its performers.”

— Joseph Flummerfelt, Conductor

The takeaway

This new recording of Mendelssohn's Elijah showcases the work's enduring power and relevance, bringing together a world-class ensemble of vocalists and instrumentalists to breathe new life into this epic biblical tale.