Franz Liszt Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Liebesträume No. 3Franz Liszt1rank/position

Franz Liszt – Liebestraum – Love Dream

A signature work by Franz Liszt, a leading figure of the Romantic era.

Born as a song in 1845 and arranged for solo piano in 1850, it is based on a poem that sings of love for family and friends, reflecting Liszt’s own romantic experiences.

Characterized by a beautiful melody and rich harmonies, it superbly expresses the depth and complexity of love.

While fully showcasing pianistic virtuosity, it also conveys tenderness and poignancy.

When you want to cherish time with a loved one, be sure to listen to this beautiful piece that will resonate deeply in your heart.

La CampanellaFranz Liszt2rank/position

Aya Nagatomi / La Campanella – Grandes études de Paganini No. 3

The delicate melody, modeled after the sound of bells, is striking, with beautiful leaps and ornaments in the high register resonating throughout.

The piano piece, revised in 1851, is characterized by passionate expressiveness that embodies the essence of Romantic music and by virtuosic performance demands.

Inspired by Niccolò Paganini’s playing in 1831, Franz Liszt arranged the theme of a violin concerto for piano.

Frequently used as background music in films and television shows, it has captivated many listeners.

This work is recommended for those who want to study in a quiet environment with focus.

Its bell-like, transparent timbre will calm the mind while maintaining a moderate sense of tension.

Grandes études de Paganini, S.141 No. 3 “La Campanella”Franz Liszt3rank/position

[Thank you! 700,000] La Campanella – Liszt – Classic Piano – CANACANA

A masterpiece by the Romantic virtuoso pianist Franz Liszt.

Based on Paganini’s violin concerto, this work is an exercise in transcendental technique crafted specifically for the piano.

Its bell-like high-register sonorities are striking, and the left-hand writing is intricate.

First published in 1838 and revised in 1851, it is recommended for those looking to improve their ability to read the bass clef and to strengthen left-hand technique.

With its brilliant melodies and demands for pinpoint accuracy in leaps, it stands as a landmark among piano études.

Chromatic Grand GallopFranz Liszt4rank/position

Cziffra plays Grand Galop Chromatique by Liszt

Liszt’s masterpiece “Grand Galop Chromatique.” Along with “Mazeppa” and “Feux follets” from the Transcendental Études, it is renowned as one of Liszt’s most difficult pieces.

The toughest spot in this work is undoubtedly the intricate passages that use the 4th and 5th fingers, isn’t it? In addition to a nasty layout that makes your fingers feel like they’ll cramp, it bombards you with wide leaps and octaves.

It’s a piece that even ordinary advanced players will find hard to execute accurately.

Compared to other Liszt works, it sometimes gets a lower evaluation due to its somewhat lesser performance impact, but for those who love the sound of augmented triads and whole-tone scales, it’s a piece that really hits the mark.

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Ryo

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Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2Franz Liszt5rank/position

Liszt – Hungarian Rhapsody No.2 -Piano- CANACANA

Hungarian Rhapsody No.

2 by Franz Liszt—the piano wizard who composed numerous fiendishly difficult pieces requiring transcendental technique—is no exception in its level of difficulty, and even professional pianists often struggle to perform it.

Beginning with a weighty atmosphere and gradually growing more brilliant, it is truly breathtaking.

Its bright, beautiful melodies and powerful rhythms have captivated piano students and enthusiasts for many years.

Mastering it demands considerable practice, but by all means, enjoy its dramatic world as you take on the challenge!

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yuri

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Transcendental Étude No. 5 “Will-o’-the-Wisp”Franz Liszt6rank/position

Liszt: Transcendental Étude No. 5 “Feux follets” [43_Fierce, Fast Score with Commentary – Classical Piano Piece]

Franz Liszt’s works are highly regarded as masterpieces that combine transcendental virtuosity with poetic expression.

This piece symbolizes a fantastical image of flickering, bluish-white lights floating in the night.

Rapid chromatic figures flow continuously, and the shimmering sound evokes the ghostly motion of “will-o’-the-wisps.” While centered in B-flat major, occasional dissonant sonorities and irregular rhythms create a mysterious atmosphere.

Completed in 1851, the piece made a significant contribution to the development of piano music.

It is recommended for those interested in classical music and for pianists seeking a technical challenge.

Mephisto Waltz No. 1, S.514 “Dance in the Village Inn”Franz Liszt7rank/position

Liszt – Mephisto Waltz No. 1, S. 514 [André Laplante]

This is a devilish dance known as a tour de force of virtuosity that has left its mark on the history of piano performance.

Premiered in 1861, it depicts a seductive village tavern ball, captivating listeners from the outset with driving rhythms and powerful fifth-chord sonorities.

The middle section features delicate writing that imitates a nightingale’s song, offering a beauty that contrasts with the passionate waltz.

Arranged from an orchestral work for solo piano, it has been performed by world-renowned pianists such as Vladimir Ashkenazy.

With its innovative Romantic-era harmonic progressions and feverish technical demands, this piece is recommended for pianists aiming for a dazzling stage presence and for those who wish to take on the pinnacle of classical music.