Franz Liszt Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Consolation No. 5Franz Liszt15rank/position

Franz Liszt – Consolation No. 5 (audio + sheet music)

Unlike virtuosic études that demand advanced technique, the piano collection Consolation consists of pieces at a relatively easy level.

The fifth piece is a very beautiful work in which a bright, gentle melody—evoking a sense of hope—is layered over a calm left-hand accompaniment.

It’s easy to read and not particularly difficult technically, but the top melodic line tends to be drowned out by the other notes that create the accompaniment and harmony.

Be sure to identify clearly where the melody lies, and try to bring it out resonantly as you play.

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yuri

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“Arpeggio,” No. 4 from the Grandes études de PaganiniFranz Liszt16rank/position

Liszt – Paganini Etude S. 140, No. 4b [Huang Yi-Chung]

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.

Three Concert Études, S.144 No. 2 “Lightness”Franz Liszt17rank/position

F. Liszt: “La leggerezza,” Trois études de concert No. 2, pf. Kotaro Fukuma

Liszt, who composed numerous terrifyingly difficult études.

While his Transcendental Études and Grandes études de Paganini are famous, this time I’d like to introduce an étude with a salon-like character: Trois études de concert, S.144, No.

2 “La leggierezza.” Its striking design shifts from triplets to septuplets, packing a variety of techniques into the right hand.

In terms of concrete difficulty, it’s roughly on par with the first half of Czerny’s Op.

740 (the “Fifty Études”).

It’s unquestionably advanced, so be sure to check it out.

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Ryo

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Liebestraum (Dream of Love)Franz Liszt18rank/position

List: Liebesträume No. 3 / Kyohei Sorita

The gently flowing piano melody softly envelops the listener’s heart.

Released to the world by Franz Liszt in 1850, this piece was originally composed as a song and later arranged for solo piano.

Its sweet yet faintly wistful resonance perfectly suits the atmosphere of a graduation ceremony, where farewells and new beginnings intersect.

From a quietly introspective opening, it builds passionately before settling back into calm—a structure that paints a drama reminiscent of reflecting on days spent at school.

Beloved across many settings, it has been used in commercials and wedding-related videos.

Why not let its tender tones grace solemn yet warm moments—such as the conferral of diplomas or the recessional?

Consolation (Comfort) No. 3Franz Liszt19rank/position

Liszt “Consolation No. 3” / Cristian Agapie

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.

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Three Concert Études No. 3 “Un Sospiro”Franz Liszt20rank/position

Lang Lang plays Liszt’s Un Sospiro

Among Franz Liszt’s Trois études de concert, Un sospiro stands out for its serene beauty, far removed from what we typically associate with an “etude.” Composed in 1849, this piece is one of Liszt’s most popular works, and its gentle, cleansing melody is frequently performed by pianists and piano students who cherish its tender lyricism.

While Liszt is often linked with technically demanding, virtuosic showpieces, listening to Un sospiro reminds us that his acclaim was by no means based on technique alone.

When you want a change of mood or a moment of relaxation, why not let it play softly in the background?

“Grandes études de Paganini,” No. 6: “Theme and Variations”Franz Liszt21rank/position

List: From 'Grandes Études de Paganini' No. 6 'Theme and Variations'

A masterpiece that fuses a graceful, dignified melody with dazzling piano virtuosity.

It brilliantly arranges Paganini’s violin piece for piano and was released to the world in a revised edition in 1851.

Preserving the elegance of the original while fully drawing out the piano’s unique expressive power, it weaves a magical sound that captivates listeners.

With exquisitely crossed hands, flowing chains of arpeggios, and a seamless execution that belies its technical demands, the performance embodies musical artistry.

Though the playing time is a relatively brief two minutes, this work combines rich musicality with advanced technique, offering a quintessential taste of pianistic delight.

It is an ideal piece for those who wish to command the stage or challenge the possibilities of the piano.