Composer

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Franz Liszt

Genre

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Keyboard

Style

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Song

Compose Date

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1837 - 1838

Publication Date

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1838 - 1879

Average_duration

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4:11

Franz Liszt's "Gretchen am Spinnrade (I & II)" is a piano transcription of Franz Schubert's Lied of the same name, D. 118. The piece was composed in 1877 and premiered in the same year. It is part of Liszt's "Transcendental Etudes," a set of twelve virtuosic piano pieces. The piece is divided into two movements, with the first movement, S. 558/8, being the more well-known of the two. It begins with a hauntingly beautiful melody in the right hand, which represents Gretchen's spinning wheel. The left hand provides a steady accompaniment, mimicking the sound of the spinning wheel. The melody is then repeated with slight variations, as if Gretchen is lost in thought. The piece builds in intensity as Gretchen becomes more and more consumed by her thoughts of Faust. The climax of the piece is reached when Gretchen's emotions become too much to bear, and she collapses in tears. The second movement, S. 558bis/8, is less well-known and is often omitted in performances. It begins with a more agitated and frenzied melody, representing Gretchen's inner turmoil. The left hand provides a more complex accompaniment, with rapid arpeggios and chromatic runs. The piece builds in intensity, with Liszt adding his own flourishes and embellishments to Schubert's original melody. The climax of the piece is reached when Gretchen's emotions become too much to bear, and she collapses in tears, just as in the first movement. Overall, "Gretchen am Spinnrade (I & II)" is a masterful transcription of Schubert's Lied, showcasing Liszt's virtuosic piano technique and his ability to convey complex emotions through music. The piece is a testament to Liszt's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of Schubert's music.

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