An extrovert and a misanthrope: Comparative analysis of virtuoso aspects and the impact of personalities in Franz Liszt's Piano concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major and Alkan's concerto for Piano solo

Abstract

Franz Liszt's cosmopolitan spirit, extroverted character and philosophical approach to creation are fully evident in his compositions. In contrast, the opus of his close friend Charles-Valentin Alkan, the relatively neglected "Berlioz of the Piano", shows the traces of his introverted and seemingly misanthropic temperament. In the 19th century, the solo concerto acquired new characteristics, reflected both in the performer's technique and in the general creative approach. It is generally known that Liszt's Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major is an important evolutionary step forward in this genre, while Alkan's Concerto for Solo Piano represents a cross-genre hybrid of a kind. In this paper we will attempt to answer the question whether it is possible to find common ground between these two extraordinary composers, and if so, determine what it is. In addition, we will try to identify the reciprocal influences between them, the existence of which might be inferred from the historical and biographical data.