Three Concert Études, S. 144 (Liszt)
Movements
Étude No. 1, Il lamento Étude No. 2, La leggierezza Étude No. 3, Un sospiro
Notes
The third étude in a set of three, composed between 1845-49. The pieces are intended for improving technique, but also for concert performance. The title ‘Un sospiro’ translates to ‘a sigh’; but was not given by Liszt himself. This composition is certainly breathtaking. A simple but ‘sighing’ melody in Db major is played over a rapid arpeggio accompaniment. Small cadenza sections requiring delicate fingerwork, a fast tempo and the requirement to cross hands, makes this work a technical challenge. At the end, the music slows right down, allowing the listener to sigh.
