Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

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1843 - 1845

Publication Date

:

1846

Average_duration

:

6:13

Franz Liszt's 'Sonetto del Petrarca No. 104, S. 158/1' is a solo piano piece that was composed in 1839. It is part of a larger collection of pieces called 'Années de pèlerinage' (Years of Pilgrimage), which was inspired by Liszt's travels throughout Europe. The collection is divided into three volumes, and 'Sonetto del Petrarca No. 104' is part of the second volume, which is subtitled 'Italie'. The piece is based on a sonnet by the Italian poet Francesco Petrarca, who lived in the 14th century. The sonnet is a love poem, and Liszt's music captures the intense emotions expressed in the text. The piece is in the key of E major and is marked 'Andante amoroso' (lovingly slow). It is a lyrical and expressive piece that showcases Liszt's virtuosity as a pianist. The piece is divided into three main sections, each of which corresponds to a different part of the sonnet. The first section is marked 'Pace non trovo' (I find no peace) and is characterized by a flowing melody that is accompanied by arpeggiated chords in the left hand. The second section is marked 'Ma se non m'ancide' (But if she does not kill me) and is more intense and dramatic than the first section. Liszt uses a variety of techniques, including tremolos and rapid runs, to create a sense of urgency and passion. The third section is marked 'E non ho l'ardor' (And I do not have the ardor) and is a return to the lyrical and expressive style of the first section. The melody is played with great tenderness and is accompanied by delicate arpeggios in the left hand. Overall, 'Sonetto del Petrarca No. 104' is a beautiful and emotional piece that showcases Liszt's skill as a composer and pianist. It premiered in 1840 in Weimar, Germany, and has since become one of Liszt's most popular works for solo piano.

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