[Lower Difficulty] Recommended Piano Pieces by Franz Liszt [Intermediate]
Franz Liszt is one of the quintessential pianist-composers of the 19th century, and he’s also known for his virtuosic style influenced by Niccolò Paganini.
Signature works such as La Campanella—an arrangement based on the theme from Paganini’s Violin Concerto—and the Hungarian Rhapsody No.
2 demand advanced technique, and even the famously “easier” Liebesträume No.
3 is actually an advanced piece when you sit down to play it.
Even so, for intermediate players who still want to try their hand at Liszt, this article gathers pieces— including some lesser-known works—researched for relatively lower difficulty within Liszt’s output.
A must-check for anyone looking to level up as a pianist!
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[Easier Difficulty] Recommended Piano Pieces by Franz Liszt [Intermediate] (11–20)
Poetic and Religious Harmonies No. 5: The Lord’s PrayerFranz Liszt
From Franz Liszt’s Harmonies poétiques et religieuses, we present a piece that evokes profound religious depth.
Completed in 1853, this collection includes a work that Liszt arranged for solo piano from his own choral composition.
Infused with a spirit of deep prayer, performances of this piece awaken a quiet sense of awe in listeners.
Demanding not only technical prowess but also inner expressiveness, it is recommended for those who wish to convey spirituality through the piano.
It is a moving work in which Liszt’s innovative musicality merges with religious contemplation, resonating deeply in the heart.
Years of Pilgrimage, Third Year, No. 3 ‘Funeral March’Franz Liszt
Here is a piece that is relatively approachable for intermediate piano players.
Composed in 1867, it was inspired by the tragic fate of Emperor Maximilian I of Mexico.
Interwoven with Liszt’s profound emotional expression and its historical background, the work portrays sorrow and mourning quietly yet powerfully.
It is recommended not only for those aiming to improve their piano technique, but also for anyone interested in history or the history of music.
This moving work allows you to feel Liszt’s musical journey and spiritual exploration.
Forgotten Waltz No. 1Franz Liszt
A jewel-like miniature left by 19th-century master Franz Liszt.
Composed in July 1881 during his later years, Liszt—also renowned as a Hungarian-born virtuoso pianist—crafted this roughly three-minute piece in which graceful melodies intertwine with bold harmonies, distilling his mature musical voice.
Its floating sonorities are exquisitely balanced with elements of a conventional waltz, evoking nostalgia for a bygone era.
With a difficulty level approachable for intermediate pianists, it serves as an excellent gateway into Liszt’s world.
Consolation No. 1Franz Liszt
Consolation is a collection of six piano pieces.
Unlike collections such as the Transcendental Études, which are characterized by brilliance and intensity, these works are calm and soothing, capturing the hearts of many classical music fans with their serene character.
No.
1 is a hymn-like miniature in which a chord-rich melody unfolds gently.
The score is not particularly complex, and with a performance time of just under two minutes, it is one of Franz Liszt’s more approachable pieces.
Try playing it while imagining the beautiful sound of a piano or organ resonating in a quiet church.
Years of Pilgrimage, Year II, No. 2: “A Man Lost in Thought”Franz Liszt
The seven pieces of Années de pèlerinage, Deuxième année are said to be musical expressions of the artistic impressions—paintings, literature, and more—that Franz Liszt encountered during his travels in Italy.
The second piece, “Il penseroso,” is a work with a grave, hushed character reminiscent of a funeral march.
When performing it, it is important to let the octaves and chords resonate by placing sufficient weight into them, giving the sound depth.
According to one theory, the piece was inspired by sculptures created by Michelangelo, the renowned sculptor famous for works such as the David.
It may be helpful to first contemplate Michelangelo’s sculptures and expand your imagination before performing.
Bagatelle in AtonalityFranz Liszt
This piece is one of Franz Liszt’s innovative works from his late period, reflecting his spirit of inquiry.
Premiered in Weimar in July 1885, it embodies Liszt’s intention to “obliterate tonality.” Employing abundant tritones and diminished seventh chords to create a distinctive atmosphere, the work is highly regarded as an exploration in freeing music from traditional tonality.
It is recommended for listeners interested in bold musical expression unconstrained by conventional harmony, as well as for those who wish to experience Liszt’s relentless musical curiosity.
In conclusion
For pianists who love classical music, playing Franz Liszt’s works can be called a dream—but many people find their technique just can’t keep up.
The pieces introduced here include several that aren’t particularly famous among Liszt’s works, but I’ve chosen ones you can tackle if you can already manage something like Burgmüller’s 25 Progressive Pieces or a sonatina to a certain extent.
Why not take your first steps into the world of Liszt, the so-called “magician of the piano,” starting from here?