Description
The fifth piece of Op.53 in the Songs Without Words, known as Volkslied (Folk Song). Op.53 is the fourth of the eight books, and the piece dates from 1841. In about two and a half minutes it distils the lyricism typical of German Romanticism.
In A minor and 4/4, it is built on a simple, folk-like melody, yet the accompaniment is full of fine movement, so a plain musical idea sits alongside a technically demanding side. The contrast between the simplicity of the melody and the intricacy of the accompaniment is the heart of its appeal.
It is rated intermediate, and at 1,810 notes in about two and a half minutes it has more notes than its simple character suggests. The challenge is to keep the busy accompaniment going without burying the melody. The range is E1 to B♭5. Check which hand carries melody and accompaniment with the hand colours, slow the playback to settle the accompaniment figures, then practise bringing the melody clearly forward. Switching to the score view also shows how melody and accompaniment overlap.
A broad collection of standalone piano pieces not belonging to any specific set, offering hundreds of varied character pieces to explore and compare.
Browse all songs in Piano Pieces →Sheet Music
Sheet music provided by Mutopia Project
About the Composer
Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847)
Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847) was a leading composer of the German Romantic era, celebrated as a child prodigy and instrumental in reviving interest in the then-neglected music of Bach. His piano cycle 'Songs Without Words' consists of lyrical character pieces that sing without text. This site includes seven pieces from that collection.
View all works by Mendelssohn →