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 (101–110)

Transcendental Étude No. 4 “Mazeppa”Franz Liszt

Nobuyuki Tsujii / Liszt: Transcendental Études – No. 4 “Mazeppa”
Transcendental Étude No. 4 “Mazeppa”Franz Liszt

Liszt’s masterpiece Transcendental Étude No.

4 “Mazeppa” is known for ranking among the most difficult of all piano works.

While it isn’t uniformly difficult in every respect, its octaves and double notes are exceptionally demanding.

Packed with allure—from chromatic octave passages that frequently appear in virtuoso works of the Romantic era and beyond to the overwhelming display in the Allegro deciso—this piece has it all.

If you’re looking to hear a single, showpiece of sheer technique for now, be sure to check it out.

Transcendental Etude No. 7 ‘Heroic’Franz Liszt

2008 Prizewinner Commemoration – Yuto Ozaki / Liszt: Transcendental Étude No. 7 “Eroica”
Transcendental Etude No. 7 'Heroic'Franz Liszt

Franz Liszt’s representative collection of fiendish pieces, the Transcendental Études.

It includes extremely difficult works like Mazeppa and Feux follets.

This time, I’d like to introduce No.

7, “Heroic,” from the set.

In Japan, it’s also well known by its Italian title, Eroica.

What makes this piece particularly challenging is the sheer abundance of arpeggios.

While it isn’t the most advanced piece in the set overall, its arpeggios are extraordinarily difficult.

Transcendental Étude “Mazeppa”Franz Liszt

Liszt, who himself became renowned as a pianist possessing exceptional technique and ability worthy of the title “virtuoso,” composed numerous works of transcendental difficulty.

The title “Mazeppa” refers to a real historical figure.

As a teenager, Liszt read and was deeply moved by Victor Hugo’s epic poem about Ivan Mazepa, who is celebrated as a Ukrainian hero.

This piece captivates with its luxurious, heroic music that boldly presses forward, perfectly fitting the word “hero,” interwoven at times with beautifully lyrical melodies.

Consolation (Comfort) No. 3Franz Liszt

Liszt “Consolation No. 3” / Cristian Agapie
Consolation (Comfort) No. 3Franz Liszt

One piece from Consolations, a piano collection composed by the piano magician Franz Liszt.

Unlike many of Liszt’s other works that require his signature “transcendental virtuosity,” this set contains more serene pieces and is known for being relatively approachable within his oeuvre.

No.

3 is especially famous and is a popular choice for recitals.

Aim for evenness in the left-hand accompaniment, sing out the elegant melody, and perform with deep expression.

Transcendental Étude No. 1 “Prelude”Franz Liszt

List: Transcendental Etudes No. 1 “Prelude” by F. Liszt / Masaya Kamei
Transcendental Étude No. 1 “Prelude”Franz Liszt

This is a work by Franz Liszt, who was active as a pianist and composer and left behind numerous highly challenging piano pieces.

The Transcendental Études contain twelve studies for piano, and the opening piece, “Prélude,” is brimming with excitement that builds anticipation for the pieces to follow.

Among this collection of notoriously difficult études, it is relatively short and comparatively approachable to play, so if you play the piano and want to experience Liszt’s unique musical world, be sure to give it a try!