Song Without Words, Op. 102 No. 3

History

Mendelssohn wrote this Song Without Words in 1845, and the surviving autograph calls it a Kinderstück, or child's piece. The set reached print after his death; its wordless, song-like shape is an invitation to make the piano phrase as naturally as a singer would.

Sources

• mutopiaproject.org
• henle.de

What to listen for

1. 1

   A light repeated figure

   The upper line repeats a compact three-note shape with detached touch. Keep the notes clear and buoyant while hearing two broad pulses per bar rather than six equally heavy beats.

2. 2

   The pattern opens into a rising line

   The compact figure becomes a rising line, then lands in a broader connected gesture. Preserve the pulse through the climb and give the longer landing space to speak.

3. 3

   Chord tones colour the same rhythm

   Paired notes now begin some of the short groups while the familiar alternating motion continues. Balance the extra chord tone without making every group an accent.

4. 4

   A wider gesture leads into a rest

   The line moves through a wider register, reaches an octave sound and then leaves a brief gap. Keep the rest in the pulse and connect the final lead-in to what follows.

How to practise it

Keep the upper repeated figures detached above short lower pairs.

1. Practise one three-note group at a comfortable pulse, then repeat it.
2. Practise the lower pair-and-rest groups before combining.
3. Connect the stated opening gestures at a comfortable tempo, keeping their distinct releases.

How hard is it

About this piece

Collection

Small scenes, big imagination

Licence

Public Domain

Source

mutopiaproject.org

More by Felix Mendelssohn

1. 1Lieder ohne Worte, Op. 85 No. 1Level 5, estimatedWith Maestro
2. 2Venetian Gondola Song, Op. 30 No. 6Level 5, estimatedWith Maestro
3. 3Scherzo in E minor, Op. 16 No. 2Level 8, estimatedWith Maestro