Liszt: Transcendental Etudes Nos. 1, 2, 8 and 9

Immerse yourself in the virtuoso world of György Cziffra with this captivating collection of Franz Liszt's masterpieces. Recorded in 1955-56 and released by Hungaroton in 2014, this album showcases Cziffra's unparalleled technical prowess and artistic sensitivity. The centerpiece of the album is a selection of Liszt's iconic "12 Études d'exécution transcendante," featuring Nos. 1, 2, 8, and 9, each a tour de force of pianistic brilliance. Cziffra's interpretations are renowned for their dynamic range and expressive depth, making this recording a standout in the classical piano repertoire.

Beyond the Études, the album offers a delightful array of Liszt's lighter fare, including arrangements of his famous waltzes and polkas, such as "An der schönen, blauen Donau" and "Tritsch-Tratsch Polka." These pieces, along with selections from "Die Fledermaus" and "Der Zigeunerbaron," provide a charming contrast to the technical demands of the Études. The album concludes with George Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue," demonstrating Cziffra's versatility and mastery of diverse musical styles.

György Cziffra, a name synonymous with pianistic excellence, brings his unique touch to these works, making this album a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts. With a total duration of 1 hour and 1 minute, this album is a testament to Cziffra's enduring legacy and his ability to captivate audiences with his extraordinary talent.

György Cziffra, born in Budapest in 1921, was a Hungarian-French pianist renowned for his extraordinary virtuosity and unique interpretations. A protégé of Ernő Dohnányi, who studied under Liszt's favourite pupil, Cziffra's career spanned the postwar decades, leaving an indelible mark on the European classical music scene. His performances were nothing short of electrifying, often leaving critics awestruck and bewildered by his rapacious technique and profound musicality. Cziffra's repertoire was vast, but he was particularly celebrated for his renditions of Liszt and Chopin. His recordings, such as the complete works of Liszt on EMI France, offer a testament to his artistry and remain essential listening for classical piano enthusiasts. Cziffra passed away in 1994, but his legacy as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century endures.