Franz Liszt Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Symphonic Poem “Ideals,” S.106 / R.423Franz Liszt76rank/position

Franz Liszt – Die Ideale (Audio + Full Score)

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.

Impromptu Waltz (Valse-Impromptu), S.213Franz Liszt77rank/position

Liszt – Valse Impromptu (Cziffra)

A short piece notable for its improvisational waltz.

At roughly five minutes, it is relatively brief and less well-known than other piano works, but its accessible, elegant character has made it a favorite among many pianists celebrated as virtuosos.

Years of Pilgrimage, First Year: “Switzerland”Franz Liszt78rank/position

List: Années de pèlerinage, First Year 'Switzerland' S.160, Lazar Berman

Liszt, who had an illicit love affair with a married woman, fled with her to Switzerland.

This work is a collection of pieces composed in various places as a memento of that time.

It consists of six pieces: 1.

The Chapel of William Tell / 2.

At the Lake of Wallenstadt / 3.

Pastoral / 4.

By the Spring / 5.

Storm / 6.

The Valley of Obermann.

Years of Pilgrimage, Second Year: Italy — After Reading DanteFranz Liszt79rank/position

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.

Forgotten Waltz No. 1Franz Liszt80rank/position

Forgotten Waltz No. 1 (Liszt) — Valse oubliée No. 1 (Liszt)

A jewel-like miniature left by 19th-century master Franz Liszt.

Composed in July 1881 during his later years, Liszt—also renowned as a Hungarian-born virtuoso pianist—crafted this roughly three-minute piece in which graceful melodies intertwine with bold harmonies, distilling his mature musical voice.

Its floating sonorities are exquisitely balanced with elements of a conventional waltz, evoking nostalgia for a bygone era.

With a difficulty level approachable for intermediate pianists, it serves as an excellent gateway into Liszt’s world.