A masterpiece by Franz Liszt. Popular classical music.

Symphonic Poem “The Battle of the Huns,” S.105 / R.422Franz Liszt

Liszt -Hunnenschlacht

The works of Franz Liszt, the Hungarian-born “wizard of the piano,” continue to captivate audiences today.

Born in 1811, Liszt displayed his talent from an early age and made his concert debut at nine.

This piece is known as one of the most striking among the symphonic poems he pioneered.

With the rich colors of the orchestra, it vividly portrays the ferocity of the Huns and the intensity of battle.

The powerful brass and percussion will unfold a grand historical panorama in the listener’s mind.

It is a must-listen not only for those interested in classical music, but also for anyone who loves history and storytelling.

Scherzo and March in D minor, S.177 / R 20Franz Liszt

Liszt / Scherzo and March, S.177, R.20 / Performed by Mayuko Wada

A piano piece composed in 1851 by the Hungarian pianist Franz Liszt.

It is an extremely difficult work requiring highly advanced technique, and there is an anecdote that only Liszt’s beloved pupil Hans von Bülow could truly master it.

As the title suggests, the first half is a Scherzo (a character piece not bound to a specific form or tempo) and the second half is a March (a piece with a steady tempo), thus comprising two styles.

In particular, the latter part of the March blends in the virtuosic passages of the Scherzo even more prominently.

Symphonic Poem “Tasso, Lament and Triumph,” S.97/R.413Franz Liszt

Liszt – Tasso, Lamento e Trionfo (Score)

This is one of Franz Liszt’s symphonic poems, active in Germany and Austria.

Completed in 1849 and premiered in Weimar in 1854, the work was inspired by the life and writings of the Italian poet Tasso and exemplifies Liszt’s symphonic poem form.

It features wistful melodies and a majestic climax, expressing Tasso’s tragic life and ultimate triumph.

Liszt is said to have been inspired to compose it by a gondolier’s song he heard in Venice.

Classified as Romantic music, the piece highlights Liszt’s imaginative orchestration and innovative musical form.

It’s a highly recommended work for classical music enthusiasts.

Dante Symphony, S.109/R.426Franz Liszt

LISZT~Dante Symphony S.109 HD Complete *ft. Gustave Doré Scenic Storyline* Complete

Influenced by Dante, the Italian poet, this work is a grand symphony depicting Hell and Purgatory.

Completed in 1855 and premiered in Weimar in 1857, it uses intense orchestration to convey the horror and despair of Hell, then transforms in Purgatory into music filled with hope—an overwhelming experience.

Showcasing Liszt’s religious inquisitiveness and innovative musical expression, it is recommended for those who wish to take on the challenge of expressing literature through music.

It is one of the signature works of Franz Liszt, a master of Romantic music.

Dark Cloud S.199 / R78Franz Liszt

Liszt- Nuages Gris (Gray Clouds), Alexander Djordjevic, piano

This is an experimental late work by Franz Liszt, one of the representative composers of the Romantic era.

Composed in 1881 for piano, it is characterized by innovative musical expression for its time, including attempts at non-functional harmony and a departure from traditional tonality.

Despite its short duration of about two minutes and thirty seconds, it exudes a gloomy atmosphere that conveys deep sorrow and a religious hue.

Today, it is widely recognized as a work that symbolizes Liszt’s spirit of musical inquiry and avant-garde stance.

It was also used on the soundtrack of Stanley Kubrick’s film Eyes Wide Shut, and its continued influence on contemporary culture is another compelling aspect.

Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-flat major, S.124 / R.455Franz Liszt

Lang Lang – Last Night Proms 2011 – Liszt Piano Concerto No. 1 in E flat major

Here is a masterpiece by Franz Liszt, a composer who epitomizes the Romantic era.

Liszt, active as both a pianist and composer, devoted about 26 years to completing this powerful work.

At its premiere, the piano was performed by Liszt himself, with Hector Berlioz conducting—a truly illustrious lineup.

Consisting of four movements, the piece captivates with its exquisite interplay between piano and orchestra.

The use of the triangle is particularly innovative and reportedly sparked controversy at the time.

It’s a highly recommended piece not only for fans of classical music but also for those interested in pianistic virtuosity.

Listen to this work, brimming with Liszt’s passion and spirit of innovation, and it’s sure to set your heart dancing.

Transcendental Étude No. 4 “Mazeppa,” S.139/4, R.2bFranz Liszt

Miroslav Kultyshev – Mazeppa

Born in 1811, Liszt was known as a virtuoso pianist and enjoyed popularity throughout Europe.

This work, inspired by an epic poem by Victor Hugo, was completed in 1851.

Liszt first composed it at the age of fifteen and later revised it multiple times.

The protagonist’s fate, bound to a horse, is depicted through intense cascades of sound and tolling bells, gripping the listener’s heart.

Demanding advanced technique, this piece is recommended for piano enthusiasts and music students.

Experience a work brimming with Liszt’s passion and virtuosity.

Years of Pilgrimage, Second Year: Italy — After Reading DanteFranz Liszt

Liszt : Après une lecture de Dante par Alexandre Kantorow (Années de pèlerinage)

First drafted in 1849, this work draws inspiration from Dante’s Divine Comedy.

From the outset, a scale progression featuring dissonances is employed, evoking the atmosphere of the abyss of Hell.

From the middle to the latter sections, beautiful melodies and dramatic developments are inserted, as if symbolizing the hope and light of Purgatory and Heaven, imparting sweeping dramatic contours to the entire piece.

Demanding advanced technique, this work is a showcase for the pianist’s skill: one must convey storm-like, intense emotions while naturally shaping the flow toward tranquility.

Liebesträume No. 3Franz Liszt

List: Liebesträume No. 3 / Kyohei Sorita

This celebrated work by Franz Liszt, renowned for the beauty of its melody, is widely loved and heard not only in concerts and recitals but also in films and television dramas.

Originally composed as a song, it was later arranged by Liszt himself for solo piano, and today it is more often performed as a piano piece.

Its romantic character makes it perfect for savoring a relaxing evening listen or for enjoying its beautiful melody at the keyboard.

It is said that Liszt’s personal romantic experiences are deeply reflected in this work.

Please take the time to appreciate its depth.

Etude of Supreme Virtuosity No. 5: Will-o’-the-WispFranz Liszt

Nobuyuki Tsujii / Liszt: Transcendental Études, No. 5 “Feux follets” (Will-o’-the-Wisps)

Among the works of Franz Liszt, known as the “magician of the piano,” this étude is particularly difficult.

Published in 1851, it takes as its theme the fantastical, elusive “Will-o’-the-Wisp,” and showcases Liszt’s trademark transcendental virtuosity throughout.

With rapid multi-note passages and arpeggios, wide-ranging leaps, and extensive shifts in register, it demands advanced technique from the pianist—but even more, it calls for delicate expressiveness.

Its otherworldly, elusive melody seems to lure listeners into another realm.

This piece is highly recommended not only for classical music enthusiasts but also for anyone who wants to experience the pinnacle of pianistic technique.