Franz Liszt - Liszt : A Faust Symphony (LP)

Franz Liszt's "Liszt: A Faust Symphony" is a captivating classical album that showcases the genius of one of the 19th century's most celebrated composers and pianists. Released on January 1, 1987, under Warner Classics International, this album features a single, epic symphony divided into three distinct movements, each portraying a different character from Goethe's "Faust." The symphony is performed by a stellar cast of vocalists, including Sylvia McNair, Jard van Nes, Uwe Heilmann, and Bernd Weikl, with Kurt Masur conducting.

The album opens with "Faust," where Liszt masterfully portrays the titular character's complex and conflicted nature. The second movement, "Gretchen," introduces a theme of innocence and purity, contrasting sharply with the first. The final movement, "Mephistopheles - Final Chorus," brings the symphony to a dramatic and powerful conclusion, embodying the devilish character of Mephistopheles.

With a duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, this album is a substantial and immersive listening experience. Liszt's compositional prowess and the exceptional performances by the artists involved make "Liszt: A Faust Symphony" a remarkable addition to any classical music collection. The album is a testament to Liszt's enduring legacy as a composer and his profound influence on the classical music genre.