Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1881

Publication Date

:

1883

Average_duration

:

14:44

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Franz Liszt's 'Von der Wiege bis zum Grabe' is a symphonic poem for piano, composed in 1881. The piece was premiered on November 13, 1882, in Budapest, with Liszt himself as the soloist. The work is divided into three movements, each representing a different stage of life. The first movement, 'From the Cradle,' begins with a gentle, rocking theme that represents the innocence and vulnerability of a newborn. The music gradually builds in intensity, as the child grows and begins to explore the world around them. The middle section of the movement is more turbulent, with dissonant chords and frenzied runs representing the challenges and struggles of adolescence. The second movement, 'To the Grave,' is a somber and reflective piece that represents the inevitability of death. The music is slow and mournful, with a sense of resignation and acceptance. The middle section of the movement is more agitated, with a sense of struggle and resistance, but ultimately the music returns to its mournful theme. The final movement, 'The Pilgrimage,' represents the journey of life and the search for meaning and purpose. The music is more optimistic and energetic than the previous movements, with a sense of forward momentum and purpose. The middle section of the movement is more introspective, with a sense of questioning and doubt, but ultimately the music returns to its optimistic theme. Overall, 'Von der Wiege bis zum Grabe' is a deeply personal and introspective work that reflects Liszt's own thoughts and feelings about life and death. The music is highly expressive and emotional, with a wide range of moods and textures. The piece is a testament to Liszt's skill as a composer and pianist, and remains a popular and influential work in the piano repertoire.

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