Mendelssohn, a composer who represents German Romanticism.
He was active not only as a composer but also as a pianist and conductor, and from a young age he possessed such musical talent that he was called a child prodigy.
In this article, we introduce some of the masterpieces Mendelssohn left behind.
Whether you’re a fan of Mendelssohn or not very familiar with him, please take a look.
We hope you’ll notice the characteristics and charm of his style and discover some new favorite pieces.
If you play an instrument or sing, do try performing them yourself!
Mendelssohn’s Masterpieces | Popular Classical Music (1–10)
Strict Variations in D minor, Op. 54NEW!Felix Mendelssohn
For those who want to take on a full-fledged set of variations at a piano recital, Variations sérieuses in D minor, Op.
54 is highly recommended.
Completed in June 1841, this work was written for a project aimed at raising funds for the erection of a monument to Beethoven.
Beginning with a theme in D minor with a somber resonance, it proceeds through 17 variations toward an overwhelming coda, offering a compelling dramatic arc.
Distinct from works that are merely showy, it demands inner tension and meticulous structural control, making it perfect for performers who wish to delve deeply into expression.
It incorporates diverse techniques—rapid passages, broken chords, leaps—and is immensely satisfying to play.
Add this masterpiece, which fuses Romantic passion with Classical discipline, to your repertoire!
Songs Without Words, Book I, Op. 19 No. 3 “Hunting Song”NEW!Felix Mendelssohn
Hunting Song – Songs Without Words (Mendelssohn) Mendelssohn – Lieder ohne Worte Op. 19, No. 3 in A major – Hunting Song
With its brilliant A-major sonority and fast tempo, Songs Without Words, Book I, Op.
19 No.
3 “Hunting Song” brings a youthful, exhilarating mood to the fore.
Included in the first volume of Songs Without Words, published in 1832, it is one of Felix Mendelssohn’s representative piano miniatures.
Marked by bright triadic harmonies and a lively rhythm, it evokes an outdoorsy, energetic image.
It calls for a balance between digital virtuosity and musical lightness, yet it is a dazzling piece that makes a strong impression even at a middle school recital—so do consider it for reference.
Songs Without Words, Book V, Op. 62 No. 6 “Spring Song”NEW!Felix Mendelssohn
“Spring Song – Mendelssohn” Mendelssohn – Song without Words, Op. 62 No. 6 “Spring Song” Classical Piano – CANACANA
This work is captivating for its bright, airy melody and flowing broken-chord accompaniment.
It’s the closing piece of Book V of Felix Mendelssohn’s celebrated Songs Without Words, a historically significant composition first published in 1844.
Although it has no official tie-in, its graceful character—evoking the gentle light and budding of spring—has made it widely used as background music in films and ceremonies.
The right-hand melody is remarkably natural, as if sung by a voice, while the left-hand accompaniment imparts a shimmering, undulating quality throughout.
Its music, both radiant and refined, is perfect for students ready to take a step beyond their current selves and develop a more compelling expressive range.
Songs Without Words, Book I, Op. 19: No. 3 “Hunting Song”Felix Mendelssohn
Barenboim plays Mendelssohn Songs Without Words Op.19 No.3 A Major – Hunting Song
Songs Without Words is a collection of solo piano pieces published in 1832, featuring melodies that sing without lyrics.
The set comprises eight volumes with 48 pieces, and this particular work is distinguished by its lively character depicting a hunting scene.
With an energetic rhythm and dynamic melody, it evokes the feeling of riding out on horseback for a hunt.
Mendelssohn’s hallmark refined melodic beauty stands out, making it appealing not only to classical music enthusiasts but also to those who enjoy playing the piano.
It’s also interesting that, in response to the demands of salon music at the time, the pieces were composed in a way that made them accessible for amateur pianists to perform.
Songs Without Words, Book I, Op. 19 No. 1 “Sweet Remembrance”Felix Mendelssohn
Mendelssohn – Songs without Words Op. 19 No. 1 (Gortler)
This is the first piece from the first book of the eight sets of Songs Without Words.
Mendelssohn’s music is often said to be ungrounded, fluttering in the air like a fairy, drifting weightlessly.
This quality is especially evident in his piano pieces and songs; in this work in particular, the music sings calmly in a dreamlike world while brimming with emotion.
Its hallmark is a tender, aching melody that flows above an arpeggiated accompaniment.
The title was added later by the publisher.
Suitable for family and mini-concerts alike, it is a work that captivates listeners.
Symphony No. 4 in A major, Op. 90 ‘Italian’Felix Mendelssohn
Mendelssohn Italian Symphony (Herbert von Karajan)
The multilingual Mendelssohn began composing during a six-month trip to Italy.
He started the work in 1831 and completed it in 1833, when he was 22 to 24 years old.
The first movement begins in A major, and the fourth movement ends in A minor; however, rather than a mournful minor, it’s a dazzling, exuberant finale that incorporates the rhythm of the tarantella.
Throughout all the movements, the piece brims with bright, lively vitality, making it truly worthy of the name “Italian.” The performance time is about 30 minutes.
