Mendelssohn: Lieder ohne Worte & Other Piano Works

Featuring

Bernd Glemser
Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy

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Historical Context

Felix Mendelssohn, a Jewish Protestant, was subjected to vilification by Wagner and the Nazis, leading to his marginalization in musical life.

Compositional Technique

In his 54 Songs Without Words, Mendelssohn created a new genre for the piano, characterized by short, lyrical character pieces with an ABA structure.

Critical Reception

Despite his historical importance, Mendelssohn's piano music is rarely performed and often avoided by established prominent artists.

Performer Biography

Bernd Glemser, the pianist on this album, was appointed Germany's youngest professor in 1989 while still a student.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Mendelssohn's musical realm of imagination is described as unique in music history for its grace, elegance, beauty, and fairytale magic, providing impulses for romantic piano music.

Performer Biography

Bernd Glemser broke a record by winning 17 competitions and special prizes in a row, using the prize money to buy his first grand piano.

Composition History

The Variations sérieuses, Op. 54, were published in a volume intended to finance the Beethoven monument in Bonn, possibly as Mendelssohn's personal homage.