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.
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Franz Liszt’s masterpieces: Popular classical music (41–50)
The Legend of Saint ElizabethFranz Liszt
Franz Liszt is famous as a wizard of the piano, but did you know he also composed a grand sacred work themed on a saint from his homeland, Hungary? This piece is an oratorio depicting the compassionate life of Princess Elisabeth, who married into the Landgraves of Thuringia.
In fact, the sweeping conception was inspired by a cycle of frescoes in Wartburg Castle.
A prayer motif symbolizing the saint recurs throughout the work, lending the narrative profound spirituality and a strong sense of unity—truly wonderful.
Premiered in August 1865 under Liszt’s own baton, the work can be heard on recordings such as the Hungaroton release conducted by János Ferencsik.
It’s highly recommended when you want to immerse yourself in a moving sound world of majestic chorus and orchestra—quite different from opera.
Symphonic Poem “Ideals,” S.106 / R.423Franz Liszt
A symphonic poem composed on the theme of Friedrich Schiller’s poem “The Ideal.” It was one of the pieces performed at the unveiling ceremony of statues of German poets, but its premiere sparked various episodes, including criticism from the audience and a rift with the violinist Joseph Joachim.
DedicationFranz Liszt
This Schumann–Liszt piece exemplifies a beautiful fusion of Romantic music.
Schumann dedicated the original song to his wife Clara in 1840, and Liszt, the “magician of the piano,” arranged it for solo piano in 1848.
While preserving the original’s emotional depth, he added pianistic virtuosity and profound expressiveness unique to the instrument.
The poetic lyrics, which sing of deep love and respect for a beloved, are rendered even more radiant through Liszt’s arrangement.
Widely cherished as a piano recital staple, this work is highly recommended for those who wish to savor the richness of Romantic-era music.
Play of WaterFranz Liszt
Maurice Ravel’s Jeux d’eau has been a beloved masterpiece among pianists since its 1902 premiere.
The piece captivates with a gentle melody that evokes the pleasant flow of water.
While influenced by Franz Liszt, it distinctly bears Ravel’s hallmark: a watercolor-like delicacy that’s easy to appreciate and warmly approachable.
It’s also an excellent first piece for exploring Impressionist music.
If approached carefully as a recital piece, it will offer both the joy of performance and tangible technical growth.
Fantasia and Fugue on the Name B-A-C-H, S.260/S.529Franz Liszt
A work originally composed as an organ piece and later arranged for piano.
Liszt was deeply familiar with Bach’s music, and Bach’s themes are employed effectively in this piece as well.
Rapidly ascending and descending arpeggios and a stormily raging bass make a striking impression.
Piano Sonata in B minor, S.178/R.21Franz Liszt
A piano sonata published in 1854 and dedicated to Schumann.
Its musical ideas undergo intense transformations throughout, leading Schumann’s wife, Clara, to dismiss it as nothing more than “purposeless noise.” However, today it is a piece frequently performed by many distinguished pianists.
Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 in C-sharp minor, S.244-2Franz Liszt
Franz Liszt, the “magician of the piano,” composed numerous fiendishly difficult pieces that demand transcendental technique.
Hungarian Rhapsody No.
2 is one of his signature works—so challenging that even professional pianists struggle with it.
It begins with a leisurely, melancholic melody and gradually accelerates, gaining brilliance in a truly breathtaking arc.
Influenced by Hungarian folk music yet adorned with the dazzling pianistic writing unique to Liszt, its bright, beautiful melodies and powerful rhythms captivate listeners without fail.
Performing this work requires a substantial amount of practice, but why not take on the challenge while fully savoring its passionate, dramatic world?