Review

Felix Mendelssohn
Song Without Words (Lied ohne Worte) Op.109:

Arranged by Ralph Sauer


Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2010
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Primary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - with piano

Between 1829 and 1845, Mendelssohn composed Songs Without Words for solo piano, which were eventually issued in eight separate books. Opus 109 was the only composition with that title that was composed for piano and cello; it was published after Mendelssohn’s death. The original was composed in the key of D with a modulation to D minor and return to D major. Sauer set his transcription in the key of C, one step lower. Range is comfortable; the highest note, the last, is c2, with alternative ossia that ends on c1, and the lowest note is G. Sauer’s change of key makes sense; most trombonists know the world of difference between a pianissimo high c2 and a pianissimo high d2. The style of the piece is akin to the lieder that were prevalent at the time. The performer will use expressive techniques to great effect in the preparation of this beautiful work, to which Ralph Sauer has applied his usual meticulous style of arranging. It is not a recital centerpiece but it is a fine slow and lyrical selection. Any trombonist seeking a piece representative of the early Romantic miniature setting should consider this selection.

-David Johansen
Southeastern Louisiana University