Mendelssohn: Songs without Words Vol.1 (Lieder ohne Worte)

Featuring

Peter Donohoe
Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy

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Performer Biography

Peter Donohoe, the pianist on this album, is acclaimed as one of the foremost pianists of our time, known for his musicianship, stylistic versatility, and commanding technique.

Critical Reception

The 'Lieder ohne Worte' were dismissed as superficial and sentimental when Mendelssohn went out of fashion, but have been re-recognized as lyric gems in recent decades.

Composition History

Mendelssohn began collecting and publishing his piano pieces in batches of six under the generic title 'Lieder ohne Worte' (Songs without Words), a title he seems to have invented.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Mendelssohn seemed to favor the piano as a social, participatory instrument, focusing on music-making in various settings like recital halls, salons, and drawing rooms.

Cultural Impact

Mendelssohn's 'Lieder ohne Worte' became immensely popular and prompted similar volumes from other composers, notably Edvard Grieg's 'Lyriske Stykker' (Lyric Pieces).

Composer Biography

Felix Mendelssohn was not only a prodigious composer, fine violinist, and leading conductor, but also an exceptional pianist who played much of his repertoire from memory.

Historical Context

Mendelssohn's reputation was negatively impacted by a failed attempt by the German Nazi Party to erase him and his work from history due to his Jewish heritage.