Overview
Introduction
Franz Liszt: In festo transfigurationis Domini nostri Jesu Christi, for piano, S. 188 (LW A300)
Composed in 1880 during the last years of Liszt's life, the In festo transfigurationis Domini nostri Jesu Christi is an exquisitely crafted composition which shows Liszt's religious convictions as clearly as his personal life was fraught with contradictions to those beliefs. Like most of his sacred works, this piece reflects an intimate and humble spiritual world, bordering on asceticism. Liszt's remarkable ability to match his music to the essence of those things which inspire it is evident in this ephemeral devotion. Beginning with a somber melody in the bass line accompanied by a light and fluid arpeggio figure in the right hand, this theme moves up the keyboard as the rising of a soul into Heaven. With harplike strokes, this work comes to a lyrical and uplifting close that holds a feeling of peace and serenity. A brief work of less than two minutes duration, this piece is an elegant gem in the body of Liszt's piano compositions.
