Mendelssohn’s Masterpieces | Popular Classical Music

Seven Character Pieces, Op. 7: No. 1 — Gently, with feelingFelix Mendelssohn

Seven Character Pieces, Op. 7: No. 1 in E minor

Composed between 1827 and 1829, the Seven Character Pieces are known as a collection of piano works that most clearly show Bach’s influence within Mendelssohn’s output.

Their style makes extensive use of counterpoint—the technique of sounding multiple distinct melodies simultaneously while maintaining harmonic coherence.

Players who have only performed pieces where the right hand plays the melody and the left hand provides chordal accompaniment may find this approach unfamiliar, but tackling these Seven Character Pieces as a beginner pianist will undoubtedly help you level up.

Here, we focus on No.

1, “Tenderly, with feeling,” which is considered one of the less difficult pieces in the set.

Its melody, imbued with Bach-like elegance and a touch of melancholy, is exceptionally beautiful, and playing it convincingly may give you a taste—however small—of Classical-era delights.

As noted, the right and left hands unfold with independent motion, so for beginners it’s important to practice hands separately.

Because the piece lacks overt showiness, be careful not to let it become too plain by playing it too evenly; shape the phrases and add dynamic nuance.

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HerbstliedFelix Mendelssohn

Herbstlied, No. 4 – Sechs Lieder-Duette, Op. 63 – Mendelssohn

Among the works of Felix Mendelssohn, a composer who represents the German Romantic movement of the 19th century, the piece known as a symbol of autumn is “Herbstlied” (Autumn Song).

Published in 1844, this song sets a poem by the poet Karl Klingemann to music, portraying the transience of life through the shifting scenes of autumn while singing of the eternity of love and hope.

Its melody, tinged with quiet melancholy yet imbued with hope, perfectly suits an autumn evening.

Showcasing Mendelssohn’s delicate sensibility, this work is recommended for those who wish to reflect on life while feeling the arrival of autumn.

“On Wings of Song” from “Six Songs”Felix Mendelssohn

List: 7 Songs (Mendelssohn) On Wings of Song pf. Kana Onda

A work arranged by Liszt from No.

2 of Mendelssohn’s song cycle “Six Songs.” The text of this song is based on a poem from Heinrich Heine’s 1827 collection “Book of Songs,” and its romantic content sings of taking one’s beloved to India—a distant Eastern land then thought of as a fairy-tale realm.

While preserving the gentle, song-like atmosphere of the original, it also bears Liszt’s signature brilliance and beautiful sonorities, making for a single piece that is both elegant and evocative.

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HATSUMI

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Wedding March from A Midsummer Night’s DreamFelix Mendelssohn

Wedding March from A Midsummer Night's Dream

When it comes to wedding music, many people probably think of this piece.

The fanfare at the beginning is incredibly famous.

This piece is one of the incidental music numbers from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, composed by the German composer Felix Mendelssohn.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a play written by William Shakespeare, telling a story woven by aristocratic men and women about to be married and by fairies.

It is characterized by a simple, memorable melody and a bright yet dignified atmosphere.

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HATSUMI

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Elias (Elia)Felix Mendelssohn

Mendelssohn Elias, oratorio – op 70 Orchestre National de France 240p

An oratorio depicting the life of Elijah, a prophet from the Old Testament, and one of the signature works of German composer Felix Mendelssohn.

Premiered in Birmingham, England, in August 1846, it captivated an audience of more than 2,000.

Centered on the themes of God’s power and human faith, it portrays Elijah’s suffering and hope with dramatic intensity.

Its rich harmonies for chorus, soloists, and orchestra leave a deep impression on listeners.

Seamlessly blending Romantic emotional expression with Baroque tradition, this masterpiece is recommended for those new to classical music and for anyone seeking music with a moving, narrative quality.

Organ Sonata in B-flat major, Op. 65 No. 4, MWV W59, IV. Allegro maestoso e vivaceFelix Mendelssohn

Organ Sonata in B-Flat Major, Op. 65, No. 4, MWV W59: IV. Allegro maestoso e vivace

The final movement of Mendelssohn’s organ sonata composed in 1845.

While adopting Baroque forms, it fuses the Romantic era’s characteristically expressive harmonies with an elegant architectural design to create a majestic work.

The brilliant finale, developed around a fugue, is both solemn and full of vitality, leaving a powerful impression on the listener.

This piece was born out of an organ performance tour in England.

From 1837 onward, Mendelssohn helped popularize organ music in England, and that experience led to the creation of this work.

It’s a highly recommended piece not only for lovers of organ music but also for anyone interested in classical music.

Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64Felix Mendelssohn

Ray Chen Mendelssohn Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64

One of the representative composers of the early Romantic era is Felix Mendelssohn.

While respecting the traditions of Classicism, he left many works rich in emotion.

Published in 1845, this piece is a masterpiece that fuses advanced violin technique with beautiful melody.

The passionate theme of the first movement and the gentle melody of the second movement captivate many listeners.

It is a work that conveys Mendelssohn’s unique delicacy and vitality.

Recommended for those who want to become familiar with classical music or savor the charm of the violin.

Loved across generations, this piece can be enjoyed by a wide audience.