Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Character Piece

Compose Date

:

1842

Publication Date

:

1842

Average_duration

:

9:02

Franz Liszt's 'Valse à capriccio sur deux motifs de Lucia et Parisina (after Donizetti), S. 401' is a virtuosic piano piece that was composed in 1863. The piece is based on two themes from Donizetti's operas Lucia di Lammermoor and Parisina. It was premiered by Liszt himself in Weimar, Germany in the same year. The piece is divided into two main sections, each based on one of the two themes. The first section is based on the famous sextet from Lucia di Lammermoor, which is a tragic love story. Liszt takes the theme and transforms it into a lively waltz, full of virtuosic runs and arpeggios. The second section is based on a theme from Parisina, which is also a tragic love story. Liszt takes this theme and transforms it into a more melancholic waltz, with a slower tempo and more expressive phrasing. The piece is characterized by Liszt's virtuosic piano writing, which showcases his technical prowess as a pianist. The waltz rhythms are prominent throughout the piece, giving it a light and dance-like quality. However, Liszt also incorporates more dramatic and expressive moments, particularly in the second section, which adds depth and emotional complexity to the piece. Overall, 'Valse à capriccio sur deux motifs de Lucia et Parisina' is a stunning example of Liszt's virtuosic piano writing and his ability to transform existing themes into new and exciting compositions. Its premiere in 1863 was met with great acclaim, and it remains a popular piece in the piano repertoire today.

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