Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Prelude

Compose Date

:

1862 - 1863

Publication Date

:

1869

Franz Liszt's "Preludes (3) (after Chopin, Op. 28/4,9 &20), S. 662" is a set of three piano pieces that were composed in 1870. The pieces are based on three preludes by Frédéric Chopin, specifically Op. 28 No. 4, Op. 28 No. 9, and Op. 28 No. 20. The set was premiered by Liszt himself in Weimar, Germany in 1871. The first prelude, based on Chopin's Op. 28 No. 4, is marked "Doloroso" and is in the key of E minor. Liszt's version is more virtuosic than Chopin's original, with added flourishes and embellishments. The piece begins with a mournful melody in the left hand, which is then taken up by the right hand. The middle section of the piece is more agitated, with rapid arpeggios and chromatic runs. The piece ends with a return to the opening melody, played softly and with great tenderness. The second prelude, based on Chopin's Op. 28 No. 9, is marked "Andantino" and is in the key of E major. Liszt's version is more ornate than Chopin's original, with added trills and runs. The piece begins with a gentle melody in the right hand, accompanied by a simple chord progression in the left hand. The middle section of the piece is more complex, with rapid arpeggios and a more elaborate melody. The piece ends with a return to the opening melody, played softly and with great delicacy. The third prelude, based on Chopin's Op. 28 No. 20, is marked "Largo" and is in the key of C minor. Liszt's version is more dramatic than Chopin's original, with added octaves and chords. The piece begins with a mournful melody in the left hand, accompanied by a simple chord progression in the right hand. The middle section of the piece is more intense, with rapid octaves and a more complex melody. The piece ends with a return to the opening melody, played softly and with great pathos. Overall, Liszt's "Preludes (3) (after Chopin, Op. 28/4,9 &20), S. 662" are characterized by their virtuosity, ornate embellishments, and emotional intensity. They are a testament to Liszt's skill as a pianist and his deep admiration for Chopin's music.

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