Franz Liszt, the Hungarian virtuoso composer, conductor, and pianist, presents a captivating collection of his most profound works in the album "This is Liszt." Released on January 1, 2007, under the label 2025 Avanticlassic, this album is a testament to Liszt's mastery of the classical piano genre. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 6 minutes, the album features a diverse range of compositions that showcase Liszt's spiritual and dramatic depth.
The album opens with transcriptions of J.S. Bach's Prelude and Fugue in A Minor, demonstrating Liszt's ability to reinterpret classical works with his unique piano technique. The centerpiece of the album is the monumental Piano Sonata in B Minor, S. 178, a work that embodies Liszt's innovative approach to sonata form and his exploration of complex emotional landscapes.
Other highlights include the dramatic "Totentanz," a paraphrase on the Dies Irae, and the "Sonetto" series, which sets three Petrarch's sonnets to music. These pieces showcase Liszt's ability to convey deep poetic and spiritual themes through his music.
"This is Liszt" is not just a collection of Franz Liszt's works but a journey through the composer's spiritual and artistic evolution. From his early transcriptions to his later, more introspective works, the album offers a comprehensive overview of Liszt's contributions to the classical piano repertoire. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Liszt's music, this album is a must-listen for anyone seeking to explore the depth and breadth of one of the most influential composers in history.