Liszt: Complete Piano Music 44 – The Early Beethoven Transcriptions

Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of Beethoven's symphonies, reimagined through the virtuosic lens of Franz Liszt, with Leslie Howard's meticulous and captivating interpretations. Released on April 1, 1997, under the Hyperion label, "Liszt: Complete Piano Music 44 – The Early Beethoven Transcriptions" is a monumental addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.

Leslie Howard, a renowned pianist and scholar, has dedicated years to the transcription and performance of Liszt's works, and this album is a testament to his expertise. The album spans an impressive three hours and twenty-four minutes, featuring Howard's masterful renditions of Liszt's transcriptions of Beethoven's Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh Symphonies, along with other notable works.

The album opens with the iconic Symphony No. 5 in C Minor, Op. 67, followed by the pastoral Symphony No. 6 in F Major, Op. 68, and concludes with the powerful Symphony No. 7 in A Major, Op. 92. Each symphony is transcribed for solo piano, showcasing Liszt's genius in adapting orchestral works for a single instrument. Howard's performances are nothing short of breathtaking, capturing the essence and grandeur of Beethoven's original compositions while highlighting the unique qualities of Liszt's transcriptions.

In addition to the symphonies, the album includes several other notable works, such as "Adelaïde," "Cadenza for the 1st Movement of Piano Concerto No. 3 by Beethoven," and "Marche funèbre de la Symphonie heroïque de Beethoven." These pieces further demonstrate Howard's versatility and mastery of the piano.

The album is a remarkable achievement, offering a fresh perspective on Beethoven's timeless compositions through Liszt's innovative transcriptions and Howard's exceptional performances. Whether you are a seasoned classical music aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.