Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1848 - 1851

Publication Date

:

1853

Average_duration

:

7:04

'Invocation, S. 173/1' is a solo piano piece composed by Franz Liszt in 1860. It is the first movement of his 'Harmonies poétiques et religieuses', a collection of ten pieces that were inspired by religious and philosophical themes. The piece was premiered by Liszt himself in Weimar, Germany in 1862. The piece begins with a slow and solemn introduction, marked 'Andante con moto'. The left hand plays a simple, repetitive pattern of chords while the right hand plays a melody that is both lyrical and expressive. The melody is based on a Gregorian chant, which gives the piece a religious and contemplative character. After the introduction, the tempo changes to 'Allegro moderato', and the main theme is introduced. The theme is a lively and joyful melody that is played in the right hand, while the left hand provides a rhythmic accompaniment. The theme is based on a French carol, 'Les anges dans nos campagnes', which is also known as 'Angels We Have Heard on High'. The piece then goes through a series of variations on the main theme, each one exploring different moods and emotions. Liszt uses a variety of techniques to create these variations, including changes in harmony, rhythm, and texture. The variations range from quiet and introspective to loud and exuberant, and they showcase Liszt's virtuosic piano writing. The piece ends with a coda that brings back the solemn mood of the introduction. Liszt uses a series of chords to create a sense of finality and resolution, bringing the piece to a peaceful and contemplative close. Overall, 'Invocation, S. 173/1' is a beautiful and expressive piece that showcases Liszt's skill as a composer and pianist. Its religious themes and use of Gregorian chant give it a spiritual and contemplative character, while its lively variations and virtuosic piano writing make it a joy to listen to.

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