Did Franz Liszt Deserve the Title of a Symphonic Composer?

Franz Liszt, a towering figure in Romantic music, left a significant mark on the musical landscape of the 19th century. However, when it comes to the question of whether he was a symphonic composer in the traditional sense, the answer is not straightforward. This article explores the complexities and nuances in assessing Liszt's symphonic compositions and his contributions to the genre.

Defining the Symphonic Tradition

To understand Liszt's place within the symphonic tradition, it is essential to define what constitutes a symphony. Traditionally, a symphony adheres to a specific structure, often following four movements with an emphasis on abstract development.[1] Composers like Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven are renowned for their strict and well-structured symphonies, which form the backbone of the classical repertoire.

Liszt's Unique Contribution

Franz Liszt did not follow this traditional path. Instead, he invented a new form known as the symphonic poem, which is a programmatic orchestral work, typically in one movement, designed to tell a story or evoke a concept. This form allows for a more narrative and descriptive approach to music, a departure from the more formal and abstract symphonies of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven.

Liszt's innovative approach was most prominently showcased in two works: the Faust Symphony and the Dante Symphony. Both compositions are deeply rooted in literature and lend themselves to a narrative interpretation.

The Faust Symphony

The Faust Symphony is a three-movement composition based on the famous legend of Doctor Faust, the German scientist, physician, and philosopher who famously sold his soul to the devil in exchange for profound knowledge and love. The first movement portrays Faust's yearning for ultimate knowledge and his struggles, the second movement captures the innocence and love of the young girl Margaret, and the third movement vividly captures Mephistopheles' temptations and Faust's eventual redemption.[2]

Liszt's use of recurring themes or melodic fragments throughout the Faust Symphony represents the evolving narrative and emotions of the characters. The symphony culminates with a male chorus and a tenor soloist singing a selection from Goethe's play. This thematic development, combined with the dramatic narrative, sets the Faust Symphony apart from traditional symphonies.

The Dante Symphony

The Dante Symphony, on the other hand, takes inspiration from the great medieval poet's The Divine Comedy. The symphony is divided into three movements: a portrayal of hell, purgatory, and heaven. The final movement, depicting heavenly bliss, ends with a female chorus singing a hymn to the Virgin Mary. This work makes use of the famous poet's narrative, blending it with musical storytelling in a unique and captivating way.

Rejection of Traditional Forms

While Liszt's works are groundbreaking, they do not follow strict musical forms such as sonata form, which are staples of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven's symphonies. This has led to criticism from some musicologists and critics who feel that these works fall short of the standards set by their predecessors. However, this criticism may overlook Liszt's innovative spirit and the artistic integrity of his works.

Liszt was one of the most innovative composers of the 19th century, and his works cannot be judged by the same standards as the symphonies of his time. His orchestral works are highly effective in their own right and offer a rich narrative and emotional depth that traditional symphonies lack.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Franz Liszt's symphonies may not fit the traditional mold of classical symphonies, they offer a unique and deeply narrative approach to music. The Faust Symphony and the Dante Symphony are prime examples of Liszt's groundbreaking work, showcasing a higher level of thematic development and storytelling. Therefore, Liszt undoubtedly deserves the title of a symphonic composer, albeit within the broader context of symphonic poetry and Romanticism.

[1] This definition is based on the typical structure of symphonies in the classical period.

[2] The Faust Symphony is also composed in three movements, mirroring the structure of the Faust narrative.