Songs Without Words, Op. 67, No. 2 "Lost Illusions" - Felix Mendelssohn

Performers may encounter several technical hurdles within this work:

• Hand Coordination: Balancing the melody in the right hand with the often complex but supportive left hand requires excellent dexterity. This is especially apparent in measures 5-8 where the rapid melody juxtaposes with a flowing accompaniment featuring arpeggiated figures.
• Dynamic Control: Maintaining shadowing dynamics, particularly from measures 19-24, can be difficult. The transition from softer dynamics to louder crescendos demands careful control and sensitivity.
• Ornament Execution: The numerous embellishments throughout the piece may pose a challenge. In measures 13-16, for example, the performer must execute trills smoothly, ensuring they don’t disrupt the underlying melodic flow.

To address these performance difficulties, the following strategies are recommended:

Highlight Dynamic Variations

• Dynamic Scales: Before tackling the piece, practice scales in A Major with varying dynamic levels. This will sharpen awareness of the nuances required in the piece, especially in measures with marked crescendos.

Metronome Use

Regular Recordings

• Record Progress: Regularly recording practice sessions allows performers to objectively hear their dynamic control, articulation, and overall fluidity. Listening back can reveal areas needing more focus.

Conclusion

Mendelssohn's Songs Without Words, Op. 67, No. 2 'Lost Illusions' presents both a beautiful lyrical experience and a rewarding challenge for pianists. By focusing on specific technical elements and implementing effective practice techniques, performers can enhance their interpretation of this exquisite piece, allowing its emotional qualities to shine through.

Detailed Analysis of "Songs Without Words, Op. 67, No. 2 'Lost Illusions'" by Mendelssohn

1. Music Appreciation

This piece, a notable composition in Mendelssohn’s Songs Without Words, showcases a lyrical and expressive character typical of his style. The piece is written in A Major with a time signature of 12/16, providing a flowing rhythmic feel that invites a gentle yet dynamic touch.

Structural Features

• Melodic Structure: The main melody primarily resides in the right hand, characterized by a series of graceful phrases and memorable motifs. Notably, sections in measures 9-12 feature a gentle arching melody that utilizes a sequence of rising and falling tones, creating emotional depth.
• Harmonic Progression: The harmonic structure features predominantly I-IV-V progressions, with interesting chromatic touches in measures like 17-20 that heighten tension. For instance, the transition to F#5 in measure 15 serves as a significant pivot, leading into a flurry of melodic embellishments.
• Ornamentation: Mendelssohn frequently employs trills and grace notes, particularly in measures 21-24. These embellishments enhance the expressiveness of the melody, adding color and detail.

Rhythmic Patterns

• The piece features varied rhythmic motifs that alternate between flowing legato passages and more animated sections, particularly noted in measures 29-32. The contrast between triplet-like passages and straight eighth notes creates a compelling momentum that captures the listener's attention.

Lost Illusions

• Artist
  Felix Mendelssohn
• Number of imitations:
  197
• Genre
  Felix Mendelssohn
• Key
  A
• Tempo
  86
• Pages
  4
• Notation
  Felix Mendelssohn
• Compose
  Mendelssohn
• Introduction
  Lost Illusions' - Mendelssohn, This music is undefined, arr. by Felix Mendelssohn, Suitable for all students to learn