Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of Franz Liszt with this captivating album, featuring some of his most renowned piano works. The centerpiece is Liszt's monumental Piano Sonata in B minor, a towering masterpiece that showcases his virtuosic technique and deep emotional range. This sonata is a journey in itself, with its dramatic shifts in mood and tempo, from the stormy opening to the introspective depths of the Andante sostenuto.
Complementing the sonata are three other significant works by Liszt. "Après une lecture du Dante" from the Années de pèlerinage: Deuxième année: Italie, is a vivid musical depiction of Dante's Inferno, filled with fiery passion and dark imagery. The "Gnomenreigen" from the Deux Études de Concert is a dazzling display of Liszt's pianistic prowess, with its whirling, dance-like rhythms. Lastly, "Funérailles" from the Harmonies poétiques et religieuses is a poignant and powerful elegy, originally written in memory of the Hungarian revolutionaries of 1848.
Recorded in 2009 by Deutsche Grammophon, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Liszt's pianistic genius. The performances are both technically impressive and deeply expressive, capturing the full breadth of Liszt's musical language. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Liszt or a newcomer to his music, this album is a compelling introduction to the composer's extraordinary piano works.