ANGELS, DEVILS & POETS

Titled Angels, Devils and Poets, the second instalment of music by Franz Liszt on the 200th anniversary of his birth in 1811 sees Christopher Duigan play a new selection of this passionate composer’s music. In the programme he includes selections from Liszt’s most extensive work - The Years of Pilgrimage.

Liszt composed music inspired by his travels in three volumes and Volume 2: Italy, features music inspired by Italian art and literature. From this, Duigan plays Sposalizio (Marriage of the Virgin: after a painting by Raphael), Il penseroso (The Thinker: after a statue by Michelangelo), and Sonetto 47 del Petrarca (after Petrarch's Sonnet 47).

The popular and endearing Consolation No 6 and Mephisto Waltz, two of the composers must frequently performed compositions, are also included in this performance. The Mephisto Waltz combines a substantial compositional framework, programmatic subtext and phenomenal virtuosity as inspired by the legend of Faust, making it truly representative composition in the best 19th century Romantic tradition, and one of Liszt’z best works. Completing the selection is the Hungarian Rhapsody No. 8, a feisty concoction which feature Liszt's dazzling technical display.

Angels, Devils and Poets will be performed on July 22 at 19h30. Tickets R100 include soup, gluhwein and coffee (served from 19h00). There will be a repeat performance on July 24 at 15h30. Tickets R80 include tea and coffee. Booking essential via email: booking@musicrevival.co.za or on 033 342 3051. The performances take place at 35 MONTGOMERY DRIVE – Athlone, Pietermaritzburg. There is secure parking.