Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Prelude & Fugue

Compose Date

:

Jun 16, 1827 - Jan 9, 1837

Publication Date

:

1837

Average_duration

:

43:54

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

Felix Mendelssohn's 'Preludes & Fugues (6) for piano, Op. 35' is a collection of six pieces for solo piano, composed in 1837. The work was premiered by the composer himself in Leipzig on March 1, 1838. The six pieces are arranged in the traditional format of prelude and fugue, with each prelude serving as an introduction to the fugue that follows. The preludes are relatively short, with a simple and lyrical character, while the fugues are more complex and virtuosic, showcasing Mendelssohn's skill as a contrapuntist. The first prelude in E minor sets the tone for the entire collection, with its melancholic and introspective character. The fugue that follows is in the same key and features a lively and energetic theme that is developed throughout the piece. The second prelude in D major is more upbeat and cheerful, with a playful and dance-like character. The fugue that follows is in the same key and features a lively and virtuosic theme that is passed between the hands of the pianist. The third prelude in B minor is the most dramatic and intense of the collection, with a dark and brooding character. The fugue that follows is in the same key and features a complex and intricate theme that is developed through a series of imitative entries. The fourth prelude in F major is the most lyrical and expressive of the collection, with a flowing and singing character. The fugue that follows is in the same key and features a lively and playful theme that is developed through a series of contrapuntal devices. The fifth prelude in D minor is the most virtuosic and technically demanding of the collection, with a fast and furious character. The fugue that follows is in the same key and features a complex and intricate theme that is developed through a series of stretto entries. The final prelude in G major is the most joyful and celebratory of the collection, with a bright and festive character. The fugue that follows is in the same key and features a lively and energetic theme that is developed through a series of canonic entries. Overall, Mendelssohn's 'Preludes & Fugues (6) for piano, Op. 35' is a masterful collection of pieces that showcases the composer's skill as a contrapuntist and his ability to create music that is both technically demanding and emotionally expressive.

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