Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Character Piece

Compose Date

:

1885

Publication Date

:

1885

First Performance

:

Aug 13, 1885

Average_duration

:

3:16

Franz Liszt's "Abschied (after Russian folksong), S. 251" is a solo piano piece that was composed in 1881. It was premiered in the same year in Weimar, Germany. The piece is part of a collection of six pieces called "Zwei Konzertetüden" (Two Concert Etudes), which were composed during Liszt's later years. "Abschied" is a single-movement piece that is characterized by its melancholic and introspective nature. The piece is based on a Russian folksong, which Liszt uses as the basis for his composition. The piece is in the key of E-flat minor and is marked "Andante con moto" (slowly, with motion). The piece begins with a simple and haunting melody that is played in the right hand. The left hand provides a gentle accompaniment that adds to the melancholic mood of the piece. As the piece progresses, the melody becomes more complex and is developed through various variations and embellishments. One of the most notable features of "Abschied" is its use of chromaticism. Liszt employs chromaticism to create a sense of tension and unease, which adds to the emotional depth of the piece. The use of chromaticism also creates a sense of ambiguity, which adds to the introspective nature of the piece. As the piece nears its end, the melody becomes more fragmented and disjointed. The left hand becomes more active, providing a sense of urgency and restlessness. The piece ends with a final statement of the melody, which is played softly and with a sense of resignation. Overall, "Abschied" is a beautiful and introspective piece that showcases Liszt's mastery of the piano. The piece is characterized by its melancholic mood, its use of chromaticism, and its haunting melody. It is a testament to Liszt's ability to create music that is both technically challenging and emotionally powerful.

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