Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Etude: Concert

Compose Date

:

1851

Publication Date

:

1852

Average_duration

:

9:06

Harmonies du soir, S. 139/11 is a solo piano piece composed by Franz Liszt in 1853. It is part of his set of twelve Transcendental Etudes, which he composed between 1826 and 1853. The piece was premiered by Liszt himself in Weimar, Germany in 1853. Harmonies du soir is the eleventh and final etude in the set, and it is considered one of the most challenging pieces in the piano repertoire. The piece is in the key of D-flat major and is marked "Andantino" (moderately slow). It is divided into three distinct sections, each with its own character and technical challenges. The first section begins with a series of arpeggios in the left hand, which are accompanied by a melody in the right hand. The melody is characterized by its sweeping, lyrical lines and its use of chromaticism. The left hand arpeggios are played in a rapid, virtuosic manner, requiring great dexterity and control from the pianist. The second section is marked "Più mosso" (more quickly) and is characterized by its rapid, cascading runs in both hands. The runs are played in a legato manner, requiring the pianist to use a smooth, flowing technique. The section builds to a climax before transitioning back to the opening theme. The final section is marked "Meno mosso" (less quickly) and is a reprise of the opening theme. However, Liszt adds new harmonies and embellishments to the melody, creating a more complex and intricate version of the theme. The piece ends with a series of rapid arpeggios in both hands, bringing the piece to a dramatic close. Overall, Harmonies du soir is a virtuosic and challenging piece that showcases Liszt's technical prowess and his ability to create complex and intricate harmonies. It is a staple of the piano repertoire and is often performed in recitals and competitions.

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