Mendelssohn

Mendelssohn - Song Without Words (Op. 19b, No. 1)

Mendelssohn’s first Song Without Words, a lovely Andante con moto in E major, is a highly enjoyable and rewarding piece to study at the early advanced level. This From the Ground Up edition begins with two reductions that lay the groundwork for an expressive understanding of the piece, and concludes... Read >>

Mendelssohn - Venetianisches Gondellied (No. 6 from Lieder ohne Worte, Op. 19b)

ABRSM Grade 6 - B3

Mendelssohn wrote 48 Songs without Words - short, lyrical pieces most of which are suitable for intermediate players. Among these are several Venetian Gondola Songs. The composer is said to have had the idea for this piece when he was on board a gondola during his Italian stay in 1830-31, copying it out about six months later. Wistful in character, the main feature is the underlying rocking motion (supplied by the left hand) over which the right hand spins a melody (often in two voices). This piece presents a challenge with regard to pedalling; we are allowed discreet touches even... Read >>

Mendelssohn - No. 2 from Kinderstücke (Op. 72)

Mendelssohn wrote his set of six Children’s Pieces, op. 72 for his young relatives during his summer holiday to England in 1842. No. 2, an andante sostenuto in the key of E flat, close in spirit to the composer’s many Songs without Words, features a lyrical melody in the right hand supported by gently flowing semiquaver patterns in the left. Resources & links Click here to purchase sheet music from the Trinity College online store (external link). Click here to... Read >>