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!
- [Masterpiece Classics] A special showcase of gem-like masterpieces so beautiful they’ll move you to tears
- [Orchestra] Introducing famous and popular pieces
- [Quartet] Masterpieces and Popular Pieces for String Quartet
- [Violin] A curated selection of beloved classic masterpieces and popular pieces that continue to be cherished across eras
- Sibelius’s famous piece. Popular classical music.
- Brahms's masterpieces. Popular classical music.
- Classical Masterpieces: Recommended Works You Should Hear at Least Once
- Classical music by Japanese composers. Recommended classical music.
- Elgar’s masterpiece. Popular classical music.
- [Haydn] Pick up famous and representative pieces!
- Masterpieces of classical piano that are too beautiful for words. A gathering of delicate tones that cleanse the soul.
- Robert Schumann | Introduction to his famous and representative works
- Pick up Beethoven’s famous and representative works!
Mendelssohn’s Masterpieces | Popular Classical Music (91–100)
Songs Without Words, Book II, Op. 30: No. 6, Venetian Boat Song No. 2Felix Mendelssohn
This piece is filled with the charm of Felix Mendelssohn, the great master of the early German Romantic era.
Born in February 1809, Mendelssohn displayed his talent from a young age.
This work is one of his hallmark Songs Without Words, depicting scenes of Venice through music.
Within its gentle 6/8 meter, it skillfully conveys the quiet sway of a gondola and the occasional surges of emotion.
The calm accompaniment in the left hand and the memorable melodic line in the right leave a deep resonance in the listener’s heart.
Though tranquil, the piece carries a touch of poignancy, making it a soul-stirring work you’ll want to listen to alone on a quiet night.
Songs Without Words, Book II, Op. 30, No. 6 “Venetian Boat Song”Felix Mendelssohn
Felix Mendelssohn, a German composer known for his graceful melodies and delicate emotional expression.
This piece from his celebrated Songs Without Words is a gem that paints the beautiful scenery of Venice in music.
Published in 1835, it was composed to celebrate the birth of Mendelssohn’s sister Fanny’s son.
Over an accompaniment that evokes the gentle sway of a gondola, the piano’s elegant melody vividly depicts a Venetian night.
It’s recommended not only for lovers of Romantic music but also for anyone seeking solace in tender, soothing tones.
Mendelssohn’s Masterpieces | Popular Classical Music (101–110)
Songs Without Words, Book V, Op. 62 No. 1 ‘May Breezes’Felix Mendelssohn
“May Breezes” from Book 5 of Songs Without Words is a piece whose gentle, tender sonority perfectly matches its title.
Among the 48 pieces in the collection, it isn’t among the most difficult, and it seems well-suited to the theme of this article.
In the right-hand main melody, there are ornamental sixteenth notes; aim to play them so they don’t interfere with the principal line, yet without becoming too weak.
As for the left-hand accompaniment—especially in the first half—those with smaller hands may find it a bit challenging, but keep practicing so that you can play it smoothly and without breaks.
Songs Without Words, Book 7, Op. 85, No. 4, ElegyFelix Mendelssohn
This Elegy is the fourth piece in Mendelssohn’s Songs Without Words, Book 7, Op.
85, which was published posthumously.
In terms of difficulty, it is about the same level as the famous Spring Song from the same collection.
While it may be challenging for complete beginners, anyone who has learned basic techniques should be able to handle it.
A key feature of this piece is the ornamental sixteenth notes: they should not be played as strongly as the main melody but rather quietly, as accompaniment, while still shaping them expressively.
Accidentals also appear fairly frequently, so be sure to read the score thoroughly and practice slowly and carefully.
Songs Without Words, Book 8, Op. 102, No. 4, Zephyr (Breeze)Felix Mendelssohn
Among Mendelssohn’s piano collections, the Songs Without Words are especially famous and are considered relatively approachable; there are 48 pieces in total, so the difficulty does vary from piece to piece.
The piece “May Breezes” (Also translated as “A Gentle Breeze”), included as No.
4 in Songs Without Words, Book 8, is roughly an intermediate-level work.
Its poised, beautiful melody tinged with a hint of pathos makes it one you’ll surely want to try on the piano.
The left hand generally provides an accompaniment of broken chords that rise from the bottom upward, so pay particular attention to the balance with the right hand, which carries the main melody.
In the right hand, the arpeggios that appear ornamentally alongside the melody are characteristic—take care not to play them with excessive force.
There are a fair number of accidentals, and rather than demanding virtuoso technique, the piece calls for careful attention to details such as smooth slurs and sensitive pedaling.
Aim for a performance that is delicate yet has a strong presence.
Spring Song from Songs Without WordsFelix Mendelssohn
Among the 48 Songs Without Words, this is the most famous piece.
With its short form and approachable melody, the collection has become one of Mendelssohn’s signature works.
The title was not given by Mendelssohn himself; because the score begins with the indication “like a spring song,” it came to be popularly known as “Spring Song.” The piece conveys a sense of longing for spring and a fresh, cheerful atmosphere.
A Midsummer Night’s DreamFelix Mendelssohn
This suite is based on Shakespeare’s play A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
The “Nocturne” features a truly dreamlike, beautiful melody that continues throughout.
It feels like you can immerse yourself in a world of happiness reserved just for the two of you.
The thorns in your heart are removed, leaving you calm, peaceful, and gentle.
The “Wedding March” is the most famous piece; rather than simply affirming love, it conveys a powerful resolve—a strong will for the two to live their lives together from here on.