RAG MusicClassic
Lovely classics

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 (61–70)

Three Concert Études No. 3 “Un Sospiro”Franz Liszt

Sigh (Liszt) – Un Sospiro – Trois études de concert – pianomaedaful
Three Concert Études No. 3 “Un Sospiro”Franz Liszt

Franz Liszt’s Three Concert Études, comprising Sorrow, Lightness, and Sigh, is a collection of highly artistic works that stand out not only for their technical difficulty but also for their lyrical beauty.

Among them, the third piece, Sigh, is a poetic and beautiful work in which a gentle, serene melody—shaped as if carefully weaving words one by one—floats over a quietly undulating arpeggiated accompaniment.

It is one of Liszt’s most popular pieces and is frequently performed in concert.

Moreover, the smooth hand-crossings create a visually striking effect, making it a piece of high visual impact as well.

Three Concert Études No. 3 “Un Sospiro”Franz Liszt

Franz Liszt’s Three Concert Etudes, noted for their strikingly beautiful melodies, are a highly artistic set that stands out not only for their technical difficulty but also for their lyrical beauty.

Among them, the third piece is a poetic and gorgeous work in which a gentle, calm melody unfolds as if carefully stringing together words, laid over a quietly undulating arpeggiated accompaniment.

It is one of Liszt’s most popular pieces and is frequently performed in concerts.

This work is perfect for relaxing at night while listening, or for savoring its beautiful melody at the keyboard.

Be sure to immerse yourself in its depth.

Concert Paraphrase on Rigoletto, S.434Franz Liszt

Nobuyuki Tsujii plays Liszt’s Rigoletto, Paraphrase de concert, S434
Concert Paraphrase on Rigoletto, S.434Franz Liszt

Verdi’s opera Rigoletto, premiered in Rome in 1851.

This Concert Paraphrase on “Rigoletto,” S.434, is based on one of the pieces from the opera.

While it may be considered somewhat niche among those unfamiliar with classical music, it is renowned among classical enthusiasts as a work of supreme artistry and formidable difficulty.

It demands an exceptionally delicate touch; without a performer who can finely control finger pressure, the tone can become harsh.

Because the atmosphere varies greatly depending on the performer, I encourage you to compare different interpretations and savor this piece.

Christmas treeFranz Liszt

Liszt: Weihnachtsbaum Suite, S.186 – Transcription by Vladimir Horowitz: 10. Ehemals
Christmas treeFranz Liszt

This collection consists of pieces Liszt composed for his grandchild between 1874 and 1876.

One can’t help but envy a grandchild who received a gift like this.

It contains twelve pieces, all related to Christmas.

Why not listen and let your thoughts drift to Christmas in distant lands? Most of the works are based on Christmas carols, but the 11th and 12th pieces are more virtuosic and depict the homelands of Liszt and his wife, Carolyne.

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.

Consolation No. 2Franz Liszt

List – Consolation No. 2 in E major, S.172-2 R.12-2 — Horowitz
Consolation No. 2Franz Liszt

No.

2 from the piano collection Consolation, which is comprised of pieces with gentle, expansive melodies, is a work in which the theme reappears in various guises—creating variety while maintaining unity and a refined atmosphere.

It begins with the melody in the right hand and accompaniment in the left, then shifts to a texture where the melody is passed between the hands, and finally comes to a quiet close with a series of chorale-like chords.

With relatively few notes and a familiar, approachable melody, it may be an accessible choice even for those taking on Franz Liszt’s music for the first time.

Consolation No. 3Franz Liszt

Consolation (Comfort) No. 3 (Liszt) – Consolation No. 3 – Liszt
Consolation No. 3Franz Liszt

Among the six pieces in Franz Liszt’s piano collection Consolations—whose title means “comfort”—No.

3 is said to be the most popular.

Its endlessly gentle, flowing melody creates a sense that one’s heart is being purified as one listens; it is a remarkably beautiful work.

Within Liszt’s oeuvre, it is relatively approachable, and many people feel, upon looking at the score, “I might be able to play this!” However, simply stringing the notes together will not convey the true charm of this piece.

To achieve a sparkling sound, be meticulous about tone quality and resonance.