Mendelssohn’s Masterpieces | Popular Classical Music

Seven Character Pieces, No. 5 in A major, “Earnestly, with increasing liveliness (Ernst und mit steigender Lebhaftigkeit),” Fugue, MWV U 60Felix Mendelssohn

Mendelssohn: 7 Charakterstücke, Op. 7, No. 5 in A Major, MWV U 60 (Roberto Prosseda)

Written in A major, this piece is a gentle, soothing work included in the album “Seven Character Pieces.” While it begins with a sincere atmosphere, its structure gradually gains vitality, evoking the warmth of a rising sun.

Composed in 1827, it is a refined work in which an elegant melody and skillful construction are in harmony.

Although it adopts the form of a fugue, its soft expression avoids any sense of stiffness.

The development, like small waves swelling into a large surge, naturally captures the listener’s heart.

Technically, there are few difficult passages, and with slow, steady practice, one can truly appreciate the beauty of the music.

Seven Character Pieces, No. 6 in E minor “Sehnsüchtig (Full of Longing)”, Andante, MWV U 61Felix Mendelssohn

Mendelssohn: 7 Charakterstücke, Op. 7, No. 6 in E Minor, MWV U 61 (Roberto Prosseda)

This short piece in E minor unfolds from the very beginning with a beautiful, chant- or song-like melody, delicately portraying a feeling of longing imbued with quiet passion.

Written by Felix Mendelssohn around the age of eighteen, it is notable for its transparent sonorities and subtle shifts in nuance.

The calmly paced melodic line is filled with the expressive richness and poetic quality characteristic of Romantic music, making it one of the most popular numbers in a set of seven short pieces composed around 1827.

Serene in atmosphere yet expressing a poignant ache beneath the surface, this work is recommended for those seeking a piece that can be played at a relaxed tempo, as well as for anyone wishing to experience the allure of Romantic music.

Rondo Capriccioso in E major, Op. 14, MWV U 67 No. 1 AndanteFelix Mendelssohn

Rondo capriccioso in E Major, Op. 14, MWV U67: Andante

Beginning with an elegant and lyrical Andante and unfolding into a light, delicate Presto, this work by Mendelssohn is a masterpiece whose original form was created when he was just fifteen.

In the Andante, a clear, beautiful melody is sung out, offering an approachable charm reminiscent of a Song Without Words.

The Presto brims with lively, airy passages, evoking an atmosphere as if spirits were dancing.

The piece is also accessible in terms of difficulty: its simple structure and beautiful melodies make it ideal for those new to classical music.

If you start practicing at a slow tempo, it becomes a wonderful work through which you can steadily feel your progress.

Variations in E-flat major, Op. 82, MWV U 158 — Theme: Andante assai espressivoFelix Mendelssohn

Variations in E-Flat Major, Op. 82, MWV U158: Theme. Andante assai espressivo

An elegant set of variations consisting of a theme and five variations.

Composed in July 1841, it bears the typical characteristics of the Romantic era while overflowing with profound emotional expression and delicate musicality.

The theme begins with a calm, expressively rich melody, followed by an ornamental first variation, a second variation characterized by harmonic changes, a lively third variation, and a quiet fourth variation.

In the fifth variation, the theme reappears, bringing the piece to a close with a beautiful afterglow.

With its approachable melody and a level of difficulty that can certainly be mastered through careful practice, this work is recommended for those who wish to explore Mendelssohn’s world or take on Romantic piano repertoire.

Six Pieces for Children (Christmas Album), Op. 72: No. 2 in E-flat major, Andante sostenuto, MWV U 170Felix Mendelssohn

Mendelssohn: 6 Kinderstücke Op. 72 [also known as „Christmas Pieces Op.72] – No. 2 Andante sostenuto

Composed as a gift for children at Christmas in 1842, Mendelssohn’s piano miniature is enveloped in a gentle, tender atmosphere.

Written in E-flat major, it features a delicate touch and refined harmonic progressions, and despite its brief length of 42 measures, it conveys a profound musicality.

Set at a relaxed Andante sostenuto tempo, its warmly expressive melody has a soothing charm.

Among the six pieces in this collection, it is particularly approachable, making it an ideal work for those just beginning piano study or for listeners interested in Romantic-era music.

Songs Without Words, Book I, Op. 19: No. 2, RegretFelix Mendelssohn

Barenboim plays Mendelssohn Songs Without Words Op.19 No.2 A Minor

The A minor piece included in Book I of “Lieder ohne Worte” is a work of deeply affecting beauty.

Unfolding at a gentle andante tempo, its melody envelops a tender sadness, while the accompaniment—simple yet effective—conveys profound emotion.

Published in London in 1832, the piece succeeds in expressing feeling through music alone, without words, distilling the allure of the Romantic piano miniature.

Despite appearances, the score is more approachable than it looks; built on simple harmonic progressions, it is definitely playable with slow, careful practice.

It’s a highly recommended piece for those who wish to play with a calm demeanor and an honest, unadorned sensibility.

Songs Without Words, Book I, Op. 19, No. 4: A Secret ConversationFelix Mendelssohn

Barenboim plays Mendelssohn Songs Without Words Op.19 No.4 in A Major

This is a gentle miniature whose calm, graceful melody seeps into the heart.

Written in 1830, the piece lets its melody flow as if singing, giving the impression of confiding a secret feeling to someone.

It’s approachable for anyone who can read music, built from a simple left-hand accompaniment and a richly expressive right-hand melody.

Its charm lies in a slow tempo that unfolds like storytelling, and despite having no lyrics, it carries abundant emotional expression.

It’s an excellent choice for those who wish to savor the elegance of Romantic music or refine their expressive touch.

Why not take your time, enjoy the tranquil passage of time, and practice it with care?