Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Fugue

Compose Date

:

ca. Jan 11, 1835 - 1836 1

Publication Date

:

1837

Felix Mendelssohn's Prelude & Fugue for piano in D major, Op. 35/2, was composed in 1837 and premiered in Leipzig the same year. The piece is part of a set of six preludes and fugues for piano, which Mendelssohn dedicated to his friend and fellow composer Ignaz Moscheles. The Prelude is marked Allegro con fuoco and begins with a lively and energetic theme in the right hand, accompanied by a driving bass line in the left. The theme is then developed and expanded upon, with the left hand taking on a more prominent role and the right hand exploring new melodic ideas. The Prelude ends with a fiery coda, bringing the piece to a thrilling conclusion. The Fugue, marked Allegro moderato, is a more complex and intricate piece than the Prelude. It begins with a subject in the right hand, which is then imitated by the left hand and developed throughout the piece. The fugue features several episodes, where the subject is briefly set aside in favor of new material, before returning to the main theme. The piece builds to a powerful climax before ending with a quiet and introspective coda. Overall, Mendelssohn's Prelude & Fugue for piano in D major, Op. 35/2, is a masterful example of his skill as a composer. The piece showcases his ability to create complex and intricate musical structures while maintaining a sense of energy and excitement throughout. It is a challenging and rewarding work for pianists, and remains a beloved part of the piano repertoire to this day.

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