Why did Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel call the third movement of her Piano Trio in D Minor, op. 11 a "song"?
Final answer:
Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel called the third movement of her Piano Trio in D Minor, op. 11 a "song" because it has characteristics of a vocal song, such as lyrical melody and expressive qualities.
Characteristics of a Vocal Song
The third movement of Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel's Piano Trio in D Minor, op. 11 stands out as a unique piece in her repertoire due to its designation as a "song." This movement, marked Andante espressivo, exhibits qualities commonly found in vocal music. One of the primary reasons why Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel referred to this movement as a "song" is because of its lyrical melody.
The melody in the third movement flows gracefully, almost as if it were meant to be sung by a human voice. This characteristic is typical of vocal music, where the melody is often the focal point, conveying emotions and storytelling through its melodic line. By labeling this movement a "song," Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel acknowledges the prominence of the melody and its significance in conveying the emotional depth of the music.
Additionally, the expressive qualities present in the third movement contribute to its classification as a "song." The piece allows for nuanced phrasing and dynamic shaping, creating a lyrical and emotive atmosphere. These expressive elements are essential in vocal music, where the performer must convey the text's meaning through their interpretation of the music.
In essence, Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel's decision to call the third movement of her Piano Trio in D Minor, op. 11 a "song" highlights the piece's lyrical melody and expressive qualities, akin to those found in vocal music. The movement invites listeners to engage with its melodic beauty and emotive power, demonstrating Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel's ability to craft music that resonates on a deeply emotional level.