Mendelssohn Songs Without Words (Complete) and Six Children's Pieces, Op. 72 [Paperback] Review

Mendelssohn has always been one of my most intriguing composers. I've always thought his stuff was at least as good, if not better than, Mozart's. They're two easy composers to compare, because after all, Mendelssohn and Mozart share more similarities than just German-sounding names that start with M. Both of them grew up as child prodigies and many music scholars would argue that each reached his musical maturity by age 20 or so (although I would disagree in Mendelssohn's case). Both lived short, but very productive lives (Mozart died at 35, Mendelssohn, 38). Neither necessarily changed the musical scene of their time, but both influenced later composers.

Personally, I've always favored Mendelssohn, and his "Songs Without Words" are a great example of his middle period (to use Beethoven terminology) style in the forms of small piano pieces. They range in difficulty from rather easy to miniature virtuosity show-offers. They offer a great display of his, shall we say 'Mozartian', melodic ideas. They really are fantastic little pieces to listen to and play.

As far as this version goes, I cannot compare it to the Schirmer edition but I can say that it suits my needs. The editor has included fingerings, the notes are printed large enough that you won't need your reading glasses and after a little wear the book will sit open on your piano (usually this becomes the main issue for pianists). All in all, the book is worth your money, and Mendelssohn is definitely worth your time.

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Product Description:
A collection of advanced piano solos by Felix Mendelssohn.

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