Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Transcription

Compose Date

:

1841

Publication Date

:

1843 - 1877

Average_duration

:

17:36

Franz Liszt's "Réminiscences de Don Juan (I & II) (after Mozart: Don Giovanni), S. 418" is a two-part piano transcription of Mozart's famous opera "Don Giovanni." Liszt composed the piece in 1841 and premiered it in Paris the same year. The first movement of the transcription, "Andante," begins with a hauntingly beautiful melody that is immediately recognizable as the famous "Là ci darem la mano" duet between Don Giovanni and Zerlina. Liszt's transcription captures the sensuality and seductiveness of the original duet, with the piano mimicking the voices of the two characters as they sing to each other. The movement also includes several other themes from the opera, including the overture and the "Champagne Aria." The second movement, "Allegro agitato," is a virtuosic tour-de-force that showcases Liszt's incredible technical skill as a pianist. The movement is based on the famous "Catalogue Aria," in which Leporello lists all of Don Giovanni's conquests. Liszt's transcription captures the frenzied energy of the aria, with the piano racing up and down the keyboard in a flurry of notes. The movement also includes several other themes from the opera, including the "Serenade" and the "Commendatore Scene." Overall, "Réminiscences de Don Juan" is a stunning tribute to Mozart's "Don Giovanni," showcasing both Liszt's incredible technical skill as a pianist and his deep appreciation for the music of his predecessor. The transcription is a testament to the enduring power of Mozart's music, and to the genius of Liszt as a composer and performer.

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