Description
Weihnachtsbaum (Christmas Tree) is a suite of 12 pieces written by Franz Liszt in 1873–76, with revisions in 1881. There are versions for solo piano and piano four-hands. Unlike much of Liszt’s piano output, Weihnachtsbaum is not especially difficult to play, and it was perhaps with young players in mind that he wrote it. The suite reflects his late, introspective style, moving away from virtuosity towards simplicity and personal expression.
Liszt dedicated Weihnachtsbaum to his first grandchild, Daniela von Bülow. The 21-year-old had accompanied her frail grandfather to Rome (which he visited often), and the first performance was on Christmas Day 1881 in Daniela’s hotel room.
A number of the 12 pieces are based on Christmas carols, including the two movements (the third and fourth in the suite) arranged here for wind quintet:
- In dulci jubilo: The Shepherds at the Manger – a delightful, pastoral setting of the well-known Good Christian Men, Rejoice.
- Adeste fideles: March of the Three Kings – here, O Come, all ye Faithful is given added drama, counter-balanced by quieter, reflective interludes.
