Song Without Words, Op. 19 No. 1

“Song Without Words” Op. 19b No. 1 (MWV U 86) by Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy. In E major, marked Andante con moto. A cantabile melody unfolds over a gently swaying sixteenth-note accompaniment — one of Mendelssohn’s most characteristic lyrical piano miniatures.

Well suited to late-intermediate and early-advanced players working on melodic projection, balance between melody and accompaniment, pedaling, and expressive touch. Across its compact span of about 50 bars, the piece rewards careful phrasing and tonal control. An excellent choice both as a focused study and as a recital piece.

• Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy - Composer