Mendelssohn's "Lieder ohne Worte" often feature a short, understated theme enveloped in a highly personalized pianistic formula, with each piece having its own character and writing style.
Composition History
March op.62 no.3, featured on this album, was orchestrated by Ignaz Moschelès and played at Felix Mendelssohn's funeral in 1847.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Mendelssohn's "Lieder ohne Worte" condense a musical "moment" into an "instant," often originating from his virtuoso improvisations, and are crafted like finely chiseled jewels.
Instruments
This recording features a sublime 1901 Steinway D piano, lent by Cédric Pescia, chosen for its fruity, clear, and singing tone across all registers.
Composer Biography
Fanny Mendelssohn, Felix's sister, was a prolific composer and highly gifted, though her brother was reluctant to share his reputation with her.
Historical Context
The early Romantic period, when Mendelssohn published his "Melodies for the pianoforte" in 1832, was a time of extraordinary creative energy, influenced by Beethoven and advancements in piano manufacturing.
Composition History
Mendelssohn's "Lieder ohne Worte" (Songs without Words) were published by Nikolaus Simrock in Bonn, though Mendelssohn himself approved the title "Romances sans paroles" in 1843.
You might also enjoy...
Mendelssohn: Variations sérieuses, Op. 54: Var. 14. Adagio – Var. 17
Mendelssohn: Piano Sonatas, Opp. 105 & 106
Felix Mendelssohn: Lieder ohne Worte, Books 5-8 & Variations sérieuses
