Album insights
Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy, recognized as one of the greatest pianists of the 19th century, gained legendary status through his performances and improvisations. However, his piano compositions did not quite measure up to those of the era’s finest works. The general view of Mendelssohn's piano music throughout the 20th century reflected a perception that he fell short in depth compared to his contemporaries. Factors like his association with Victorian norms and the banning of his music by the Nazis tarnished his reputation, leading him to be seen as a provider of pleasant but superficial salon music.
Contrary to the critical views held later, Mendelssohn experienced a meteoric rise in the 1830s and 40s and was viewed as a prodigious talent, even being referred to as a second Mozart. He contributed significantly across various musical genres but encountered limitations in opera. As a conductor, he elevated the Leipzig Gewandhausorchester, and his dedication to preserving Bach and Handel's works influenced his own compositions. Mendelssohn's refined piano style garnered praise, with critics admiring his technical skill and musical expression.
Today, there is a resurgence of interest in Mendelssohn's piano works, with Howard Shelley's comprehensive recordings offering a fresh perspective on his repertoire. Mendelssohn composed nearly 200 piano pieces, with only around 70 published during his lifetime. His works, ranging from Capriccio, op. 5 (1825) to the sixth set of Songs Without Words, op. 67 (1845), showcase his diverse musical talent.
A significant collection of Mendelssohn's piano music, Op. 35, features six Preludes and Fugues along with other lyrical and expressive compositions. These works highlight Mendelssohn's exploration of baroque counterpoint and his unique melodic expressiveness. His dedication to the works of Bach contributed to a revival of interest in the Baroque master's music during the 19th century.
Growing up in a family that revered Bach's music, Mendelssohn was exposed to the Wohltemperierte Klavier at a young age, inspiring his own compositions. The nine Preludes and Fugues from Op. 35 and Op. 37 showcase Mendelssohn's skill in blending traditional contrapuntal forms with contemporary styles, drawing from Baroque influences while maintaining modern compositional techniques.
Mendelssohn's Lieder ohne Worte, Op. 62, represents a blend of solo and duet pieces, each conveying unique emotions and musical ideas. These works demonstrate Mendelssohn's ability to capture different moods and narratives through his piano compositions, reflecting personal experiences and broader musical influences.
In conclusion, Mendelssohn's piano works continue to captivate audiences and musicians alike, shedding new light on his contributions to the musical landscape of the 19th century.