Mendelssohn: Songs without words, Vol. 2

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Felix Mendelssohn with his captivating collection, "Songs Without Words, Vol. 2." This exquisite album, released on April 14, 2023, under the prestigious Chandos label, is a testament to Mendelssohn's enduring genius and his profound impact on classical music. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 21 minutes, this volume is a treasure trove of chamber music, classical piano compositions, and choral pieces that showcase Mendelssohn's unparalleled ability to convey emotion and narrative through music.

The album opens with the monumental "17 Variations sérieuses in D Minor, Op. 54, MWV U 156," a work of significant scale and depth, originally published to raise funds for a monument. This piece alone is a masterclass in piano composition, demonstrating Mendelssohn's technical prowess and his knack for creating intricate, engaging variations.

Following this, the album delves into a series of "Lied ohne Worte" (Songs without Words), Mendelssohn's most famous solo piano compositions. These short, lyrical pieces are a highlight of the collection, each one a miniature masterpiece that explores a different mood, melody, and harmonic landscape. From the tender "No. 5 in F-Sharp Minor / Major, MWV U 90" to the playful "No. 5 in A Major, MWV U 194 'Piece for Children'," these songs are a testament to Mendelssohn's versatility and his ability to capture the essence of human emotion in just a few minutes of music.

The album also features the "Phantasie in B-Flat Major, Op. 15, MWV U 74 on an Irish Song 'The Last Rose of Summer'," a piece that showcases Mendelssohn's ability to blend different musical traditions and create something entirely new. The "Scherzo from 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' in B-Flat Major, Op. 61, MWV M 13" is another standout track, offering a glimpse into Mendelssohn's incidental music and his ability to create vivid, evocative soundscapes.

Performed with verve and passion by the renowned pianist Peter Donohoe, this album is a celebration of Mendelssohn's enduring legacy and his ability to connect with audiences across generations. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Songs Without Words, Vol. 2" is an album that will captivate and inspire, offering a rich, rewarding listening experience that showcases the very best of Mendelssohn's piano compositions.