FRANZ LISZT

Franz Liszt (1811-1886), was a Hungarian pianist, composer, and teacher. He wrote many works for the piano and orchestra, and was the most celebrated pianist of the 1800's.

Liszt was born in Raiding, Hungary. His father, a talented amateur musician, was his first piano teacher. The boy's musical talent appeared early. By the time he was 11, he had been presented in many parts of Europe as a child prodigy at the piano.

In 1823, Liszt went to Paris to study the piano systematically. The French recognized him as a brilliant performer with an almost uncanny ability to improvise on the keyboard. He had once wanted to become a priest, but decided instead to follow a career in music. He was inspired by the success of Niccolo Paganini to become as much a master of the piano as Paganini was of the violin.

Liszt quickly became a favorite of the wealthy in France , not only because of his talent, but also because of his fascinating personality. His generosity, his fine family background, and his ability as a writer and critic added to his popularity.

In 1830, when Liszt was 19, he met Frederic Chopin, Hector Berlioz, and Paganini. A few years later, he was romantically involved with the woman writer, George Sand.

Liszt made triumphal tours throughout Europe as a concert pianist, and he achieved tremendous success. In 1842, he was appointed as court music conductor to the German Duchy of Weimar. In Weimar , he began his brilliant career as a composer. He also conducted opera and concerts, and made Weimar the European headquarters for music. He sponsored the work of Richard Wagner. While at Weimar, Liszt brought out Wagner's «Tannhauser» and «Lohengrin». He also produced «Ben-venuto Cellini», an opera by the French composer Hector Berlioz, as well as many other works.

In 1859, Liszt resigned his post and went to Rome , where in 1865, he joined the Franciscans, and was given the title of Abbe. From then on, he began teaching piano and composition. Among his students were many who became great: Camille Saint-Saens, Georges Bizet, Bedrich Smetana, and Rafael Joseffy.

Liszt died at Bayreuth, attending a Wagner festival. A statue at Weimar honours him.

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