Mendelssohn’s Masterpieces | Popular Classical Music
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!
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Mendelssohn’s Masterpieces | Popular Classical Music (61–70)
Songs Without Words, Book VII, Op. 85, No. 4 “Elegy”Felix Mendelssohn
Songs Without Words, left to us by the genius German Romantic composer Felix Mendelssohn.
One piece included in its Book 7 is a serene masterpiece that depicts profound emotion.
Born in 1809, Mendelssohn began composing at the age of just five and demonstrated precocious talent, even reviving Bach’s St.
Matthew Passion at twenty.
This work is a piano miniature that weaves a story without words.
Its world of delicate melodies and intricate ornaments speaks directly to the listener’s heart.
Perfect for those who wish to express calm yet deep feeling.
Piano enthusiasts, do give it a try.
Songs Without Words, Book 8, Op. 102, No. 4 ‘The Zephyr’Felix Mendelssohn
Songs Without Words, left by Felix Mendelssohn, a composer emblematic of German Romanticism.
This collection of 48 short piano pieces in eight volumes was written between 1829 and 1845.
Among them, one piece included in the eighth volume is a masterpiece that, though gentle, demands richly expressive playing.
Its delicate arpeggios and broken chords in the left hand weave a beautiful melody that seems to depict scenes of nature.
Though there are no lyrics, it brings a sense of calm and comfort to listeners.
It’s a recommended piece not only for piano enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in classical music.
Why not let yourself be captivated by its elegant strains?
Barcarolle No. 2 in F-sharp minor from Songs Without Words, Book IIFelix Mendelssohn
Felix Mendelssohn, a German composer who left behind many delicate and graceful works, is especially known for his collection of short piano pieces called Songs Without Words.
The collection is divided into eight volumes, and the melancholy melody of Venetian Boat Song No.
2 in F-sharp minor, included in the second volume, is a celebrated piece that brings tears to the eyes.
Although all 48 pieces have titles, Mendelssohn himself named only five of them.
Venetian Boat Song No.
2 in F-sharp minor is one of those and is cherished as an exceptionally beautiful and striking work among the Songs Without Words.
Wedding March from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Op. 61 (incidental music)Felix Mendelssohn
The works of Felix Mendelssohn, a German composer who represents the early Romantic era, are known for honoring the classical style while embracing the emotions and imagination of Romanticism.
Incidental Music to A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Op.
61, published in 1842, is especially famous for its Wedding March, which is widely beloved as background music for wedding ceremonies.
The piece is characterized by its brilliant, majestic melody, evoking the joyous cries of fairies and the happiness of lovers.
Why not enjoy this masterpiece—expressing Mendelssohn’s dreamlike world through elegant melody—on the piano as well?
Fantasia in F-sharp minor, Op. 28 “Scottish Sonata”Felix Mendelssohn
Felix Mendelssohn, a great composer beloved for his fantastical musical style, is especially familiar to intermediate pianists and wrote many works suited to their level.
One such piece is his Fantasia in F-sharp minor, Op.
28, the “Scottish Sonata.” Its allure lies in Mendelssohn’s signature brilliance, and the third movement offers an exquisitely romantic melody.
A key challenge is the rapid sextuplets at the beginning of the third movement.
Since both hands must articulate these figures, diligent practice is essential; however, because the passage contains many repeats, this piece is an excellent fit for intermediate classical pianists who are progressing and enjoy this repertoire.
On Wings of SongFelix Mendelssohn
Felix Mendelssohn, a German Romantic composer known for his delicate music—he’s famous for pieces like the Wedding March, of course.
Among Mendelssohn’s works that beginners and intermediate pianists can tackle without too much difficulty, my top recommendation is On Wings of Song.
While it doesn’t have the complexity of pieces by Beethoven or Brahms, it delivers a high level of musical impact, and its blissful melody brings a sense of peace to listeners.
If you’re looking for a beautiful piano piece that’s both accessible to listen to and to play, give this work a try.
Wedding MarchFelix Mendelssohn
When it comes to wedding entrance songs, this is probably the first piece that comes to mind for many people.
The “pa-pa-pa-paaan” tune—it’s a classic masterpiece.
With its grand, leisurely orchestral melody, it’s brimming with celebratory spirit, just as the title suggests.
A recommended classical piece for couples who want a traditional wedding.