Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1882 - 1883

Publication Date

:

1883

Average_duration

:

6:32

"Der Gondelfahrer" is a solo piano transcription of a song composed by Franz Schubert, D. 809. Franz Liszt transcribed the song for piano in 1846, and it was published as S. 559. The piece is one of Liszt's most popular transcriptions of Schubert's songs. The composition is in the key of G minor and is divided into two movements. The first movement is marked "Andante sostenuto" and is a slow, melancholic piece that captures the mood of the original song. The second movement is marked "Allegro vivace" and is a lively, energetic piece that contrasts with the first movement. The first movement begins with a simple, haunting melody played in the right hand. The left hand provides a gentle accompaniment, with occasional bursts of arpeggios that add to the melancholic mood. The melody is repeated several times, with slight variations each time, before the piece builds to a climax with a series of ascending arpeggios. The movement ends with a return to the original melody, played softly and slowly. The second movement is a complete contrast to the first. It begins with a fast, lively melody played in the right hand, accompanied by a driving rhythm in the left hand. The melody is repeated several times, with variations and embellishments added each time. The middle section of the movement is slower and more lyrical, with a new melody played in the right hand and a gentle accompaniment in the left. The movement ends with a return to the original melody, played with even more energy and excitement than before. Overall, "Der Gondelfahrer" is a beautiful and expressive transcription that captures the essence of Schubert's original song. The first movement is a hauntingly beautiful piece that showcases Liszt's ability to create a mood and atmosphere with his music. The second movement is a lively and energetic piece that demonstrates Liszt's virtuosity and skill as a pianist. Together, the two movements create a powerful and emotional experience for the listener.

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