Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of national melodies and anthems as masterfully interpreted by Franz Liszt in "Liszt: Complete Piano Music 27 – Fantasies, Paraphrases & Transcriptions of National Songs." Released in 1994 under the Hyperion label, this classical piano album is a testament to Liszt's virtuosity and his ability to transform well-known tunes into captivating piano pieces.
Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, this collection features 15 tracks that showcase Liszt's genius in paraphrasing and transcribing national songs. From the stirring "La Marseillaise" to the patriotic "God Save the Queen," and the Hungarian national anthem "Szózat und Ungarischer Hymnus," each piece is a masterclass in musical interpretation. The album also includes lesser-known gems like "Glanes de Woronince," a series of three pieces inspired by Ukrainian and Polish melodies, and "Hussitenlied," a powerful rendition of the Hussite hymn.
Leslie Howard's performance on the piano brings these pieces to life, capturing the essence of each melody and infusing them with his own artistic sensibility. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a fascinating exploration of how national songs can be reimagined through the lens of a musical genius like Franz Liszt.