Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1885

Publication Date

:

1956

Average_duration

:

22:54

Movement_count

:

7

Movement ....

Franz Liszt's Hungarian Historical Portraits (7), (first version), S. 205 is a set of seven character pieces for solo piano. The work was composed in 1879 and premiered in Budapest on January 27, 1880. The seven movements are each dedicated to a different historical figure from Hungarian history. The first movement, "Hunyadi László," is dedicated to the 15th-century Hungarian military leader who fought against the Ottoman Empire. The music is heroic and martial, with a prominent use of octaves and a driving rhythm. The second movement, "Dózsa György," is dedicated to the 16th-century peasant leader who led a rebellion against the nobility. The music is more somber and introspective, with a mournful melody and a sense of tragedy. The third movement, "Báthory Erzsébet," is dedicated to the infamous 16th-century countess who was accused of torturing and killing young girls. The music is eerie and unsettling, with dissonant harmonies and a sense of foreboding. The fourth movement, "Rákóczi Ferenc," is dedicated to the 18th-century prince who led a failed rebellion against the Habsburgs. The music is passionate and fiery, with a sense of defiance and rebellion. The fifth movement, "Kossuth Lajos," is dedicated to the 19th-century politician who led the Hungarian Revolution of 1848. The music is grand and majestic, with a sense of triumph and victory. The sixth movement, "Petőfi Sándor," is dedicated to the 19th-century poet who was a leading figure in the revolution. The music is lyrical and expressive, with a sense of nostalgia and longing. The final movement, "Arany János," is dedicated to the 19th-century poet who wrote about Hungarian history and folklore. The music is gentle and reflective, with a sense of reverence and respect for the past. Overall, Liszt's Hungarian Historical Portraits (7) is a powerful and evocative tribute to the rich history and culture of Hungary. Each movement captures the essence of its subject with vivid musical imagery and emotional depth.

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