1. Trauermarsch
2. Mazurka No. 4 in D major

Zwei Stücke, Op. 35, were published in 1880 by Rieter-Biedermann (plate numbers 1110 and 1111). The first piece, Trauermarsch (Funeral March), presents an unusual form, perhaps conceived as an homage to Frédéric Chopin, whose own Funeral March bears the same opus number. Popper’s march, however, evokes a Wagnerian atmosphere reminiscent of Götterdämmerung.

Mazurka No. 4 is a joyful and spirited work dedicated to the memory of violinist Henryk Wieniawski (1835–1880), who had passed away earlier that year. The piece shares its character and energy with Wieniawski’s Obertass and Dudziarz, Op. 19. Popper composed six numbered mazurkas in total, and while the Trauermarsch carries no dedication, the pairing of these two works may be viewed as a musical tribute to his dear friend.

(Excerpted from the preface of the Urtext edition published by Yuriy Leonovich)