Franz Liszt (LIST)

Born October 22, 1811 near Sopron, Hungary

Died July 31, 1886

Nationality: Hungarian

Period/Style: Romantic

About the composer:

His Hungarian name was Ferenc but he never used that name and preferred Franz. His father was Hungarian and his mother was Austrian. He was so young when he went to study in Vienna and Paris that he never really learned his native language well.  He regretted this later in life.  His preferred language was French, but he could speak several different languages. While he was in Paris he attended a concert by the violin virtoso Niccolo Paganini, and became motivated to become the greatest pianist of his day.  He often practiced the piano for over 10 hours a day!  It must have paid off, because when he toured around Europe, giving concerts, people were amazed at his playing!  He truly was one of the greatest pianists of all time.  He was also a very caring man, and his great generosity with both time and money benefited the lives of many people, including victims of disasters, orphans, and the many students he taught for free when they couldn’t afford lessons.  He also contributed money to the Beethoven memorial fund, which helped other music students.

About the music:

Hungarian Rhapsody #2 in C-sharp minor

As you might expect from a virtuoso pianist, the music Liszt wrote for the piano is some of the most technically challenging of all piano music.  This is one of a set of fifteen rhapsodies based on Hungarian tunes, including some dance tunes. This Rhapsody has been used in cartoons.  Perhaps you will recognize it.

Suggested activities:

Find Franz Liszt’s birthplace on the map.  This used to be a part of the Austrian Empire. Find out more about the Austrian Empire.

What languages do they speak in Austria today?