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 (51–60)
Romance S.169Franz Liszt
This piece is said to have been composed when Franz Liszt visited Moscow.
While it doesn’t use an abundance of notes, it combines various elements—romance, calm, and intensity—making it a quintessential work by Liszt, a leading composer of the Romantic era.
Some might think, “I’ve never heard of a romance by Liszt,” but in fact, this piece, written in 1848, has often been featured in concerts and is highly popular among piano enthusiasts.
Before tackling Liszt’s large-scale works, it’s also recommended to experience his world through this piece.
Symphonic Poem: ‘What a Man Heard on the Mountain’ S.95 / R.412Franz Liszt
A symphonic poem composed based on the poet Victor Hugo’s collection Autumn Leaves.
A majestic, nature-themed motif evoking grand, imposing landscapes and a human motif expressing torment emerge in rivalry, and the work ultimately draws to a quiet close as if the two come to terms with each other.
Symphonic Poem “Festive Sounds,” S.101 / R.418Franz Liszt
A symphonic poem composed as an overture to Schiller’s play ‘Homage to the Arts,’ premiered in 1854.
Known for its brilliant, sprightly melodies, it is said by some to have been written as festive music to celebrate a marriage to Princess Carolyne von Sayn-Wittgenstein, with whom the composer was romantically involved at the time.
Cradle Song, S.174, R.57Franz Liszt
When people think of Franz Liszt, many imagine passionate, romantic music and pieces of mind-boggling virtuosity.
However, this work, while retaining Liszt’s characteristic sweetness, contains no sense of intensity; it unfolds gently throughout, a beautiful piece that seems to lead you into a comfortable sleep.
The note count is modest and it’s easy to read from the score, but to shape the calm flow and play smoothly, precise fingertip control is essential.
First published in 1854, this piece should be performed with correct hand form, cherishing each and every note.
Franz Liszt’s masterpieces: Popular classical music (61–70)
Years of Pilgrimage, Third Year, S.163/R.10, A283, No. 4: The Fountains of the Villa d’EsteFranz Liszt
Franz Liszt’s masterpiece depicting the flow of water is captivating for its elegant melodies.
The piano’s timbre vividly portrays the fountains of the Villa d’Este, transporting listeners to a foreign land.
Liszt is said to have visited the villa in 1868 and been deeply impressed by its beauty.
The work also contains religious elements, with a biblical verse inserted in the middle section.
This piece is an important work that later influenced Impressionist music.
It’s recommended not only for piano enthusiasts but also for anyone seeking solace in the sounds of nature.
Liebesträume No. 3 (Three Nocturnes): “Dreams of Love”Franz Liszt
Franz Liszt, the great Hungarian composer who pioneered the New German School and the symphonic poem.
He was a composer who created a turning point in the classical world and left behind numerous masterpieces brimming with originality.
Among them, Liebesträume has long been cherished as an especially beautiful work.
Although it is widely loved as a soothing piano piece, it was originally composed as a song! In the piano version arranged by Liszt himself, the instrument’s unique timbre enables exquisitely delicate expression, masterfully brought to life.
“Arpeggio,” No. 4 from the Grandes études de PaganiniFranz Liszt
This is a grand set of variations that arranges Paganini’s violin work for piano.
First published in 1838, it underwent revisions to reach its current form.
In the eleven variations that follow the theme, piano-specific techniques such as tremolos, octaves, and arpeggios are lavishly employed.
Composed by Franz Liszt after being impressed by Paganini’s performances, with the aim of achieving violin-like expression on the piano, the piece combines dazzling brilliance that captivates audiences with profound musicality.
The beauty of its textures and development fully brings out the piano’s allure, making it a popular work in concerts and piano competitions.
It is recommended for performers with solid technique and expressive ability, and is a piece that will make a strong impression at recitals.