Franz Liszt, Vol. 2: The Weimar Years, 1848-1861

The second volume in Alan Walker's magisterial biography of Franz Liszt.

Much like the first installment of this biography, The Weimar Years is meticulously researched and written based in the principle that only facts that could be verified would make it into the book. Many myths are dispelled and clarified.
After the personal triumphs of his life as a concert pianist, Liszt becomes the Kappellmeister in Extraordinaire in Weimar. His goal was to create the “Athens of the North” and elevate Weimar’s standing in the art world. It is a tough time. After the insurgence of 1848, the empire is broke and Liszt’s projects are constantly underfunded. He also has to deal with some “admin” for which his personality is not well suited.
Liszt was a musical pioneer whose music paved the way to the 20th century. Composers such as Wagner, Ravel, Debussy, Strauss, Prokofiev owe much to the way Liszt pushed the boundaries of piano technique and to his innovative harmonic language. He also championed contemporary music and supported many musical careers through his influence. A powerful position that made him powerful enemies and created endless controversy.