Liszt: Weihnachtsbaum & Two Movements from Christus

Featuring

Mark Viner
Franz Liszt

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Performer Biography

Mark Viner, the pianist on this recording, is known for his unique artistry and bold exploration of less-known piano literature, earning him international renown.

Composition History

Liszt's Weihnachtsbaum (Christmas Tree) occupied him on and off for about eight years, from its inception in 1873 until its completion in 1881, undergoing multiple revisions.

Critical Reception

The fact that prominent musicians like Ferruccio Busoni and Ignacy Jan Paderewski knew nothing about "Schlummerlied" highlights the comparative neglect of Liszt's later works.

Composition History

Weihnachtsbaum was dedicated to Liszt's granddaughter, Daniela von Bülow, and received its premiere on Christmas Day in her hotel room during their trip to Rome.

Critical Reception

For many years, one piece from Weihnachtsbaum, "Schlummerlied," was mistakenly believed to be an independent work due to a copyist's error and was published as such before the full set was rediscovered.