Felix Mendelssohn
Piano Quartet in D minor
Works Info
Composer:Felix MendelssohnGenre:ChamberCompose Date:1821Publication Date:1970Average_duration:14:14Felix Mendelssohn's Piano Quartet in D minor, Op. 1, was composed in 1822 when he was just 13 years old. It premiered in Berlin on December 24, 1822, with Mendelssohn himself playing the piano part. The quartet consists of four movements: 1. Allegro moderato - The first movement begins with a dramatic and intense introduction, followed by a lyrical and expressive main theme. The development section explores various themes and motifs, leading to a powerful and energetic conclusion. 2. Andante - The second movement is a beautiful and melancholic adagio in A-flat major. The piano introduces the main theme, which is then taken up by the strings. The movement is characterized by its lyrical melodies and expressive harmonies. 3. Scherzo: Leggiero e vivace - The third movement is a lively and playful scherzo in D major. The piano and strings engage in a lively dialogue, with the piano often taking the lead. The trio section features a more lyrical and expressive melody, before returning to the playful scherzo. 4. Finale: Allegro molto - The final movement is a fast and energetic allegro in D minor. The piano introduces the main theme, which is then taken up by the strings. The movement is characterized by its virtuosic piano writing and dramatic string passages. The coda features a powerful and triumphant conclusion. Overall, Mendelssohn's Piano Quartet in D minor is a remarkable work for a composer of such a young age. It displays his prodigious talent and mastery of form and structure. The quartet is characterized by its expressive melodies, dramatic contrasts, and virtuosic piano writing. It remains a popular and frequently performed work in the chamber music repertoire.More....
