Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1840

Publication Date

:

1841

Average_duration

:

10:12

Franz Liszt's 'Réminiscences de Robert le diable: Valse infernale (after Meyerbeer), S. 413' is a virtuosic piano work that was composed in 1859. It is based on themes from the opera 'Robert le diable' by Giacomo Meyerbeer, which was a popular work in the mid-19th century. The work was premiered by Liszt himself in Paris in 1860. The 'Réminiscences de Robert le diable' is a single-movement work that is divided into several sections. The opening section is marked 'Allegro agitato', and it features a rapid and virtuosic piano part that is based on the opera's overture. This section is followed by a slower and more lyrical section that is based on the aria 'Robert, toi que j'aime'. This section is marked 'Andantino', and it features a more expressive and melodic piano part. The next section of the work is marked 'Allegro vivace', and it features a lively and energetic piano part that is based on the ballet music from the opera. This section is followed by a more introspective section that is marked 'Lento assai'. This section features a more subdued and contemplative piano part that is based on the aria 'Va, dit-elle'. The final section of the work is marked 'Allegro agitato', and it features a return to the virtuosic and energetic piano writing of the opening section. This section is based on the opera's 'Valse infernale', which is a demonic waltz that is played during a scene in which the characters are possessed by evil spirits. Liszt's piano writing in this section is particularly challenging, featuring rapid runs, arpeggios, and octave passages. Overall, the 'Réminiscences de Robert le diable' is a virtuosic and challenging work that showcases Liszt's technical prowess as a pianist. It also demonstrates his ability to transform operatic themes into a virtuosic piano work that is both musically interesting and technically demanding.

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