Composer of the Month: Franz Liszt (Romantic Period)

"Music is never stationary; successive forms and styles are only like so many resting-places—like tents pitched and taken down again on the road to the Ideal." — Franz Liszt

Franz Liszt (1811 - 1886) was a Hungarian piano virtuoso and composer who, through his performance energy, revolutionized piano recitals. He was the first to perform side-on to the audience so that his hands would be visible. 

Liszt began composing at the age of eight and made his first public appearance as a concert pianist at nine. His performance impressed local magnates so much that they paid for Liszt's music education for the next six years. 

In 1823, he moved with his family to Paris and made a sensational concert debut the following year. Yet, years of performing took a toll on his health and he expressed a desire to become a priest. He went through a long period of depression and doubt about his career. At one point, he did not touch the piano for over a year. 

Between 1830 and 1832, Liszt met three composers, including Frédéric Chopin, who had a profound influence on him. By 1834, he emerged as a mature composer. 

It was also during this time that Liszt met and fell in love with Countess Marie d’Agoult, with whom he had three children. He continued to compose, travel, and perform around Europe extensively. He received great adulation during these peak years as a virtuoso. Additionally, he had a major impact on the success of the not yet-known German composer Richard Wagner. 

Liszt is regarded as one of the greatest piano masters, and as a pianist, he radically extended the technique of piano writing, giving the instrument a full and rich, almost orchestral sound. He was a principle figure of the Romantic movement. 

Apart from over 700 compositions, Liszt was also the author of books and essays, and helped propel many young composers into fame.

Click here to listen to Franz Liszt's Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2.