Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Prelude

Compose Date

:

1854

Publication Date

:

1856

Average_duration

:

12:47

Franz Liszt's "Weinen, Klagen, Sorgen, Zagen (after J. S. Bach), S. 179" is a piano transcription of Bach's cantata BWV 12. Liszt composed this piece in 1862, and it premiered in Weimar on March 29, 1863. The piece consists of three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "Weinen, Klagen, Sorgen, Zagen," is a somber and mournful piece that reflects the text of the original cantata. Liszt's transcription captures the intensity of the vocal lines and the emotional depth of the music. The movement begins with a slow and mournful introduction, followed by a series of variations on the main theme. The variations become increasingly complex and intense, building to a powerful climax before returning to the somber opening theme. The second movement, "Jesu, bleibet meine Freude," is a well-known chorale from the original cantata. Liszt's transcription captures the simple beauty of the melody, with delicate arpeggios and gentle harmonies. The piece is a stark contrast to the first movement, with a sense of peace and tranquility that reflects the text of the original chorale. The final movement, "Wir setzen uns mit Tränen nieder," is a powerful and dramatic piece that brings the transcription to a close. The movement begins with a slow and mournful introduction, followed by a series of variations on the main theme. The variations become increasingly complex and intense, building to a powerful climax before returning to the somber opening theme. Overall, Liszt's "Weinen, Klagen, Sorgen, Zagen (after J. S. Bach), S. 179" is a masterful transcription that captures the emotional depth and complexity of Bach's original cantata. The piece showcases Liszt's skill as a pianist and composer, with intricate harmonies, complex variations, and powerful climaxes. It remains a popular piece in the piano repertoire, and a testament to the enduring power of Bach's music.

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