Liszt
Sonata in B minor
The most beautiful one movement Sonata I have ever heard. After all the hype and climaxes this Sonata possesses, I feel the most intriguing aspect is its form. The Sonata does not stop between movements, but rather are linked to one another creating a cohesive whole. Within the Sonata lie seven themes that Liszt transforms with the mood and character throughout the piece. The opening is the most intriguing with a quarter note…pause….quarter note….pause…..then……another quarter note….As if the grim reaper was knocking at the door. Although famous for its large virtuosic passages, and dramatic heart wrenching themes, the most appealing aspect, is Liszt’s development of thematic material and representation of the Faust legend.
Ballade No. 2
Chromaticism, low register, turbulent characters, put this Ballade in a separate room from Chopin’s set. The short introduction although reminiscent of a Chopin Ballade, is quickly transformed into a story…Liszt style. The drama is not only communicated by the melody, but by the surrounding accompaniment. A real show tune, Ballade No. 2 to me, seems more a piece that has to be witnessed live. A born showman, Liszt’s works communicate to a level so deep, that his music while beautiful to the ear, is enhanced when complimented by its visual. Live performances put the cream on the cake.
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