Album insights
Through a century, Franz Liszt's songs were viewed as insignificant, overshadowed by his larger compositions. Collaborating with top European vocalists like Adolphe Nourrit and the von Milde couple, Liszt transformed the song genre by setting texts from eminent poets and amateur writers, revolutionizing the field and influencing future masters. His songwriting spanned a significant period, evolving from transcribing Schubert's works to composing his first song during a trip to Italy. Liszt's continuous experimentation with song structures and harmonies marked his shift from opulence to intricacy over the years.
Liszt's song publications, commencing in the 1840s and spanning various music publishers, unveiled his innovative approach to the song genre. His works like "Kling leise, mein Lied" and "Wie singt die Lerche schön" displayed musical ingenuity and thematic depth. Composing intricate pieces such as "In Liebeslust" and the tre sonetti di Petrarca showcased his dynamic range and deep emotional expression. In songs like "Bist du" and "Im Rhein, im schönen Strome," Liszt revealed his harmonically rich language and ability to capture contrasting emotions with enchanting melodies and vibrant harmonies, leaving a lasting influence on musical compositions.
Franz Liszt's contributions to the world of music extended beyond his virtuosic piano performances. While his vast repertoire may have once overshadowed his song compositions, a closer look reveals the transformative impact of his innovative works in the genre. Liszt's journey through songwriting, marked by experimentation, collaboration, and evolution, shaped the landscape of musical expression and paved the way for future generations of composers.