Earl Wild: Liszt –

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Franz Liszt with the album "Earl Wild: Liszt –", released on Ivory Classics in 2001. This exquisite collection of Liszt's masterpieces offers a profound exploration of the composer's genius, spanning a variety of genres and moods within the classical piano repertoire.

The album begins with selections from Liszt's "Années de pèlerinage" (Years of Pilgrimage), a series of three suites that reflect the composer's travels and poetic inspirations. The "Sonetto" pieces, inspired by Petrarch's sonnets, showcase Liszt's ability to translate poetic imagery into musical language. "Les jeux d'eau à la villa d'Este" evokes the playful water games at the Villa d'Este, demonstrating Liszt's mastery of descriptive piano writing.

The album also features some of Liszt's most beloved works, including the lyrical "Liebesträume" (Dreams of Love) and the virtuosic "3 Concert Études." The "Fantasia & Fugue in G Minor" and the "Sonata in B Minor" highlight Liszt's innovative approach to musical form and structure. The program concludes with a selection of shorter pieces, including the dramatic "Funérailles" from "Harmonies poétiques et religieuses" and the lively "Mephisto Polka."

Earl Wild, renowned for his interpretations of Liszt's music, brings a unique insight and technical brilliance to these performances. His playing is characterized by a deep understanding of the composer's intentions, combined with a virtuosic technique that brings out the full expressive potential of the music.

With a total duration of over two hours, this album offers a comprehensive journey through Liszt's piano works, from intimate lyricism to grand virtuosity. Whether you are a seasoned Liszt enthusiast or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to provide a rewarding and engaging listening experience.