Franz Liszt ： Années de pèlerinage deuxième année “Italie” Il penseroso in cis-moll S.161/R.10-2

Il penseroso is a character piece that conveys the introspective mood suggested by its title through a subdued register and restrained sonorities. Its gently unfolding melody and shifting harmonies shape a quiet period of contemplation. Rather than projecting emotion through broad gestures, the performer should give careful attention to resonance and silence. The work should be understood as a single continuous flow, while changes in the exchange between voices and in the harmony should be brought out carefully where the music seems to shift its atmosphere. The left hand should provide support without becoming too heavy, allowing the right-hand melody to sing deeply. Use the pedal to connect the sonorities while avoiding muddiness, and savor the shading of C-sharp minor and the stillness that remains at the end.