Songs without Words
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Lieder ohne Worte (Songs without Words) are a series of eight musical volumes consisting of six "songs" each (a total of 48) written for the solo piano by Romantic composer Felix Mendelssohn. These 8 works were written at various points throughout his life that served as music amateur pianists could perform on the piano. The piano became increasingly popular during this era, where it became the focal point of many households.
These works were part of the Romantic tradition of writing short, lyrical pieces for the piano.
[edit] The 8 Volumes
The first volume of songs, Opus 19, was composed between 1830-32.
The second volume of songs, Opus 30, was composed in 1835. It is interesting to note that in both of the first two volumes, Mendelssohn gave the 6th song the title Venezianisches Gondellied (Venetian Gondelier's Song).
The third volume of songs, Opus 38, was published in 1837. Song number 6 was given the title Duetto by Mendelssohn, since two melodies were written to represent two separate singers.
The fourth volume of songs, Opus 53, was composed in 1841.
The fifth volume of songs, Opus 62, was composed in 1844. It contains a further Venezianisches Gondellied and the so-called Spring Song.
The sixth volume of songs, Opus 67, was published in 1845. Song number 4, Spinnerlied (Spinner's Song), has also been given the nickname the "Bee's Wedding" for it resembles the buzzing of bees.
The seventh volume of songs, Opus 85, was published posthumously.
The eighth and final volume of songs, Opus 102, was composed in 1845.
