Loading…
- Liszt, Franz
Duration: 15 minutes
Description: Malediction, S. 121 (Concerto for Piano and Strings in E minor) was composed in 1833 by Franz Liszt (1811–1886) during his early virtuoso period, at a time when he was exploring new forms of expression for the piano beyond the conventional concerto. Likely inspired by Lord Byron’s poem The Curse of Minerva, the work reflects a brooding, declamatory character, with the piano set against a string ensemble in an often turbulent dialogue. The piece remained unpublished and largely unknown until the 20th century, when it was rediscovered and introduced into the repertoire. Structurally unconventional, Malediction alternates between recitative-like passages and more lyrical sections. Malediction occupies a niche but intriguing place in the piano-and-orchestra repertoire, performed occasionally as an early and experimental work by one of the piano’s greatest composers. Instrumentation: Str (8.8.5.5.5 in set): Solo Piano in score. Reprint edition.