Franz Liszt 1811 – 1886

Biography

Franz Liszt was born on October 22, 1811, in the small Hungarian town of Raiding, where his early life would shape him into one of the most influential musical figures of the nineteenth century. As both a composer and virtuoso pianist, he became renowned throughout Europe for his extraordinary talent and innovative approach to music. His technical mastery at the keyboard set new standards for what was possible in piano performance, inspiring musicians and audiences alike with his passionate interpretations and revolutionary compositions.

Throughout his career, Liszt embodied the spirit of Romantic-era artistry, creating works that challenged musical conventions and expanded the boundaries of his instrument. His dedication to his craft and his influence on successive generations of composers and performers established him as a towering presence in music history. On July 31, 1886, Liszt passed away in Bayreuth, Germany, at the age of seventy-four, succumbing to pneumonia. His death marked the end of an era, yet his legacy endured through the countless musicians and compositions he had shaped during his remarkable lifetime.