Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

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1848 - 1855

Publication Date

:

1855

Average_duration

:

3:19

Franz Liszt's "Au lac de Wallenstadt" is the second piece in his piano suite "Années de pèlerinage, première année: Suisse" (Years of Pilgrimage, First Year: Switzerland). The suite was composed between 1848 and 1854, and "Au lac de Wallenstadt" was premiered in 1855. The piece is named after Lake Walenstadt, a picturesque lake in eastern Switzerland. It is a lyrical and expressive piece, with a flowing melody that evokes the peacefulness and beauty of the lake. The piece is in A-flat major and is marked "Andante." It begins with a simple, arpeggiated accompaniment in the left hand, while the right hand plays the melody in a singing, legato style. The piece is in ternary form, with a middle section that contrasts with the opening theme. The middle section is marked "Più mosso" (more movement) and is in the key of F minor. It is more dramatic and intense than the opening section, with a faster tempo and more complex harmonies. The middle section builds to a climax before returning to the opening theme. One of the characteristics of Liszt's piano music is his use of virtuosic techniques, such as rapid arpeggios and octave runs. However, "Au lac de Wallenstadt" is a more restrained piece, with a focus on melody and expression rather than technical display. The piece is a beautiful example of Liszt's ability to create evocative and expressive music that captures the essence of a place or emotion.

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