Franz Liszt ： Excelsior S.500 R.337

“Excelsior” is a piano work placed among Liszt’s compositions under the catalogue number S.500. Its tonality has not been identified, and the piece invites listeners to attend to sonorities suggesting the upward aspiration of its title, together with Liszt’s characteristically brilliant piano writing. Following the broad overall flow, the expansion of the register, and the changes in harmony can make the musical direction easier to perceive. In performance, it is important to bring the melody clearly above the accompaniment and maintain contrasts in dynamics without exaggeration. Even in brilliant passages, avoid forcing the sound; careful pedal use can preserve both the sense of forward motion and transparency.