Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1863

Publication Date

:

1984

Average_duration

:

21:00

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Franz Liszt's 'Légendes (2), for orchestra, S. 113a' is a two-movement orchestral work that was composed in 1863. The piece was premiered in Weimar, Germany, on December 2, 1863, under the direction of Liszt himself. The first movement, titled "St. Francis of Assisi Preaching to the Birds," is a programmatic piece that depicts the story of St. Francis preaching to a group of birds. The movement begins with a serene and peaceful introduction, which represents the calmness of the natural world. As the movement progresses, the music becomes more animated and lively, representing the birds' excitement and enthusiasm as they listen to St. Francis's sermon. The movement ends with a return to the peaceful opening theme, representing the birds' contentment and satisfaction. The second movement, titled "St. Francis of Paola Walking on the Waves," is also programmatic and depicts the story of St. Francis of Paola walking on the waves of the sea. The movement begins with a slow and solemn introduction, which represents the vastness and power of the sea. As the movement progresses, the music becomes more agitated and turbulent, representing the waves crashing against each other. The movement reaches a climax when St. Francis begins to walk on the waves, represented by a triumphant and heroic theme. The movement ends with a return to the solemn opening theme, representing the calmness and serenity of the sea after St. Francis's miraculous feat. Overall, 'Légendes (2), for orchestra, S. 113a' is a masterful orchestral work that showcases Liszt's skill in programmatic music. The piece is characterized by its vivid and evocative depictions of the stories of St. Francis, as well as its use of contrasting themes and moods to create a dynamic and engaging musical experience.

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