Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1848

Average_duration

:

13:15

Franz Liszt's Ballade No. 2 (I) in B minor, S. 170a is a solo piano piece that was composed in 1853. It premiered in Weimar, Germany in 1854. The piece is divided into three movements, with the first movement being the most well-known. The first movement of the Ballade No. 2 (I) in B minor is characterized by its dramatic and emotional nature. It begins with a slow and melancholic melody that gradually builds in intensity. The middle section of the movement features a faster and more virtuosic passage, which is followed by a return to the opening theme. The movement ends with a powerful and dramatic coda. The second movement of the piece is a scherzo, which provides a contrast to the emotional intensity of the first movement. It is characterized by its playful and light-hearted nature, with a fast and lively tempo. The final movement of the Ballade No. 2 (I) in B minor is a lyrical and expressive adagio. It features a beautiful and flowing melody that is accompanied by delicate and intricate piano work. The movement gradually builds in intensity before returning to a peaceful and serene conclusion. Overall, the Ballade No. 2 (I) in B minor is a complex and challenging piece that showcases Liszt's virtuosic piano skills and his ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his music. It is considered to be one of his most significant works for solo piano and is still widely performed and admired today.

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