Liszt: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2, Tre Sonetti del Petrarca & Tannhäuser Overture

Immerse yourself in the virtuoso world of Franz Liszt with this captivating album, released on January 19, 2018, by audite Musikproduktion. This collection showcases Liszt's extraordinary talent through his Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2, the evocative "Tre Sonetti del Petrarca" from his "Années de Pèlerinage - Deuxième Année: Italie," and a thrilling paraphrase of the "Overture to 'Tannhäuser'."

The album opens with the grand Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, a piece that highlights Liszt's innovative and dramatic style. The concerto's four movements, from the majestic "Allegro maestoso" to the fiery "Allegro marziale animato - Presto," demonstrate Liszt's mastery of both technical brilliance and emotional depth. Following this is the Piano Concerto No. 2 in A Major, a work that further showcases Liszt's ability to blend lyrical beauty with virtuosic display, particularly in movements like the "Adagio sostenuto Assai" and the "Allegro Deciso."

The "Tre Sonetti del Petrarca" offers a more introspective journey, with three sonnets set to music that reflect Liszt's deep appreciation for poetry and his ability to translate its essence into sound. Each sonnet, from the introspective "Sonetto No. 47 del Petrarca" to the lively "Sonetto No. 123 del Petrarca," reveals Liszt's nuanced approach to composition.

The album concludes with Liszt's paraphrase of the "Overture to 'Tannhäuser'," a piece that showcases his ability to reinterpret and elevate existing works. This collection, spanning a total of 1 hour and 19 minutes, is a testament to Liszt's enduring influence on classical music and his unparalleled skill as a pianist and composer. Whether you're a longtime fan of Liszt or new to his music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.