A masterpiece by Franz Liszt. Popular classical music.
We introduce the masterpieces of Franz Liszt, who was born in Hungary and was active across Europe, including Germany and Austria.
From the works of Liszt—renowned as a pianist and also a composer for famous pieces such as La Campanella and Liebesträume—we present recommended and representative masterpieces, including not only piano works but also symphonic pieces performed by orchestra.
Please enjoy the many wonderful masterpieces by this composer, known as the “Magician of the Piano” for the anecdote that he could sight-read and master any piece.
Franz Liszt’s masterpieces. Popular classical music (1–10)
Grandes études de Paganini No. 3 in G-sharp minor “La Campanella,” S.141/3, R.3bFranz Liszt
Completed in 1851, this piece is based on the third movement of Paganini’s Violin Concerto No.
2.
Franz Liszt, a leading composer of the Romantic era, was inspired by Paganini’s performances and resolved to become “the Paganini of the piano.” The result was this very work.
Its bell-like high-register sonorities leave a strong impression, and it pushes piano virtuosity to the extreme.
With leaps spanning as much as a fifteenth, it is a formidable piece that tests a performer’s skill.
It’s recommended not only for classical music enthusiasts but also for those interested in the possibilities of piano performance.
Each listening reveals something new—an exhilarating piece that sets the heart dancing.
Mephisto Waltz No. 1 (The Dance in the Village Inn), S.514Franz Liszt
Franz Liszt, a composer representing the Romantic era, was born in the Kingdom of Hungary of the Austrian Empire on October 22, 1811.
He made his performance debut at age nine and became so popular across Europe that the phenomenon was called “Lisztomania.” This work was composed under the inspiration of the poet Nikolaus Lenau’s epic poem Faust and depicts a scene in a tavern where peasants gather.
The opening chords built on stacked fifths are striking, showcasing Liszt’s innovative harmonic sensibility.
With the high level of technical difficulty and wide expressive range characteristic of the man known as the “magician of the piano,” it has become an important repertoire piece for pianists to demonstrate their prowess.
“Consolation,” No. 3 from Three Concert Études, S.144/R.5Franz Liszt
A collection of piano pieces dedicated to List’s younger uncle, Eduard.
It consists of three pieces titled “Sorrow,” “Lightness,” and “Sighs.” Among them, the third piece, “Sighs,” is especially notable for its graceful, romantic melody and wide-ranging arpeggios.
Fountains of the Villa d’Este, No. 4 from Années de pèlerinage, Third Year, S.163/R.10eFranz Liszt
This is a work composed in the late years of Franz Liszt, renowned as a master of the Romantic era.
It takes as its subject the fountains of the Villa d’Este in Italy, expressing the flow of water and the play of reflected light through delicate arpeggios.
Written shortly before his death in 1886, the piece showcases Liszt’s consummate artistry and is said to have influenced later Impressionist music.
With a performance time of about 7 minutes and 30 seconds, its tranquil yet richly expressive character makes it ideal for moments when you wish to calm the mind.
Although technically demanding, its beautiful melodies that evoke the movement of water are sure to captivate not only classical music enthusiasts but a broader audience as well.
Symphonic Poem “Hamlet,” S.104/R.421Franz Liszt
This is a symphonic poem by Franz Liszt, known as the magician of the piano.
Liszt studied music in Vienna, made his performance debut at the age of nine, and later gained such popularity on concert tours across Europe that it was dubbed “Lisztomania.” This work is a symphonic poem based on Shakespeare’s Hamlet, expressing Hamlet’s inner conflicts and the drama among the characters through music.
Although completed in 1858, it did not receive its premiere until July 2, 1876, eighteen years later.
Liszt’s symphonic poems are intended to depict stories and images through music, making full use of the power of the full orchestra.
It is recommended for those interested in music inspired by literary works.
Three Concert Études No. 3 in D-flat major “Un sospiro”NEW!Franz Liszt
This piece is distinguished by flowing arpeggios that evoke a gentle spring breeze.
As the third of Franz Liszt’s Three Concert Études, it is known for possessing an exceptionally beautiful melody among the works published in early 1849.
The technique in which the left and right hands cross smoothly while successively singing the melody is visually very elegant and lulls the listener into a dreamlike state.
The soft sonority of D-flat major conveys the warmth of the season shifting from winter to spring.
Although Liszt is renowned for his transcendental virtuosity, this work demands poetic expressiveness more than sheer technique.
It is a piece I would especially recommend to those seeking peace of mind or wishing to immerse themselves in a romantic musical atmosphere.
Rhapsodie espagnole, S.254/R.90Franz Liszt
Franz Liszt, born in 1811 in Hungary, was known as a virtuoso pianist and was called the “magician of the piano.” This work is a dazzling piece that incorporates the allure of Spanish music and was completed in 1845.
It strongly reflects elements of flamenco and the folia, combining rhythmic dance sections with lyrical passages.
Technically demanding, it calls for Liszt’s signature brilliant performance techniques.
The piece conveys impressions from Liszt’s visit to Spain during his performance tours, expressing an understanding of and respect for a different culture.
It is recommended not only for classical music enthusiasts but also for anyone who wants to enjoy passionate music.
Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2, S/G 244, R 106Franz Liszt
Composed with inspiration from Hungarian folk songs and Romani music, this piece conveys the love of Franz Liszt—who was born in Hungary—for his homeland.
It opens with a melancholic, elegiac introduction and gradually accelerates, drawing listeners in.
Published in 1851, the work incorporates highly demanding virtuoso techniques that push the technical limits of the piano, offering performers a chance to showcase their skills.
As one of the signature works by Liszt, a leading composer of the Romantic era, it is recommended for those who cherish Hungary’s traditional music or who enjoy dazzling piano performances.
Symphonic Poem “Prometheus,” S.99 / R.416Franz Liszt
This is a work by Franz Liszt, known as the founder of the symphonic poem.
The piece is themed on the Greek myth of Prometheus.
Liszt’s monumental music depicts Prometheus’s suffering and courage as he brings fire to humankind.
Characterized by its dramatic musicality and inventive orchestration, it leaves a deep impression on listeners.
It is an intellectually engaging and moving piece that reflects Liszt’s profound knowledge of literature and philosophy.
Highly recommended for those who want to experience a story through music.
From “Two Legends”: 1. Saint Francis of Assisi Preaching to the Birds, S.175 / R.17Franz Liszt
It is a masterpiece whose graceful melodies resonate in the ear.
Composed by the Hungarian composer Franz Liszt between 1862 and 1863 and premiered in Budapest in 1865, this piece is based on the story of Saint Francis of Assisi preaching to the birds, expressing the beauty and sanctity of nature through music.
With the piano’s delicate timbre, it skillfully imitates birdsong and the sound of flowing water, and the scenes where the saint’s voice seems to speak gently are particularly striking.
Reflecting Liszt’s religious sensibility, this work is recommended for those who wish to connect with nature and faith.
Please enjoy this moving masterpiece by the composer known as the “magician of the piano.”