Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1875

Publication Date

:

1876

Average_duration

:

17:42

Franz Liszt's "Gretchen: 2. Satz aus der Faust-Symphony, S. 513" is a symphonic poem that was composed in 1854. It is the second movement of Liszt's Faust Symphony, which is based on Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's Faust. The piece premiered on September 5, 1857, in Weimar, Germany, with Liszt conducting. The piece is divided into three sections, each of which represents a different aspect of Gretchen's character. The first section is slow and mournful, representing Gretchen's sadness and despair. The second section is more lively and energetic, representing Gretchen's youthful spirit and vitality. The third section is a return to the mournful theme of the first section, representing Gretchen's tragic fate. The piece begins with a haunting melody played by the cellos and basses, which is then taken up by the violins. This melody is repeated throughout the first section, with variations and embellishments added by the other instruments. The second section begins with a lively, dance-like theme played by the woodwinds and strings. This theme is then developed and expanded upon by the entire orchestra, with Liszt using a variety of techniques to create a sense of excitement and energy. The third section returns to the mournful theme of the first section, with Liszt using the same melody but with different harmonies and instrumentation. The piece ends with a quiet, somber coda that brings the piece to a close. Overall, "Gretchen: 2. Satz aus der Faust-Symphony, S. 513" is a powerful and emotional piece of music that captures the essence of Gretchen's character. Liszt's use of melody, harmony, and orchestration creates a vivid and evocative musical portrait of this tragic figure from Goethe's masterpiece.

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