Category: Classical Music Piano Solos Franz Liszt is one of the most famous and influential composers in classical music history. His works for piano solo are some of his most popular, and this collection showcases a range of pieces from different periods of his life. The first piece on the album, "Il Penseroso," is one of Liszt's most well-known works. It is a slow, contemplative movement that explores themes of introspection and meditation. The piano playing is expressive and emotional, with Watts delivering a powerful performance that captures the essence of this iconic piece. The second piece on the album, "Il Penseroso & Canzonetta del Salvator Rosa," is another work from Liszt's Italian sojourn. It is a lively and energetic movement that showcases Liszt's virtuosic piano playing. The canzonetta is particularly memorable, with its catchy melody and intricate harmonies. The third piece on the album, "Andre Watts Plays Liszt - Album 1," features six grand etudes after Paganini. These pieces are challenging and demanding, requiring a high level of technical skill and musicality. Watts delivers an impressive performance, with each movement showcasing his virtuosic playing and expressive interpretation. The fourth piece on the album, "Au Lac de Wallenstadt," is another work from Liszt's Italian sojourn. It is a slow, melancholic movement that explores themes of longing and nostalgia. The piano playing is delicate and sensitive, with Watts delivering a moving performance that captures the essence of this piece. The fifth piece on the album, "Il Penseroso / En Reve / Nuages Gris / Unstern / Lugubre Gondole Ii," features four kleine klavierstucke from Liszt's Années de pèlerinage. These pieces are short and sweet, with each movement showcasing Liszt's virtuosic piano playing and expressive interpretation. The final piece on the album, "Il Penseroso / Canzonetta Del Salvator Rosa - Fur Klavier (For Piano Solo) - Annees de Pelerinage II," is a re-recording of two works from Liszt's Italian sojourn. The canzonetta is particularly memorable, with its catchy melody and intricate harmonies. Overall, this collection showcases the incredible range and depth of Franz Liszt's piano solos. Each piece is a testament to his virtuosic playing and expressive interpretation, and Watts delivers an impressive performance throughout.