Hungarian composer and pianist (1811–1866) who takes a place among the first rank of nineteenth-century musicians. His superhuman prowess at the keyboard earned him a singular cachet as perhaps the greatest virtuoso in the history of the instrument. His advanced, forward-looking musical language made him one of the most important and influential composers of the Romantic era; in this regard, his primary benefactor was his son-in-law, Richard Wagner. ALS in French, signed “F. Liszt,” three pages on two sheets, 5.25 x 8, February 22, 1868. Liszt writes to a friend about his transcription of Romeo and the “prodigius talent” of Carl Tausig, of whom he says, in part, “If Briareus with his hundred hands, should try playing the piano he would not succeed as well as Tausig with his fingers of bronze and diamond. The concerto of which you speak must have resounded proudly.” Tausig was the son of Aloys Tausig (1820 - 1885), a student of Thalberg, and a minor composer. When he was 14, his father took him to Liszt, who immediately encouraged him and took him on as a student. Liszt took Carl on concert tours and taught him counterpoint, composition, and orchestration as well as piano. Nicely matted and framed (so both sides of the page are visible) along with a portrait of Liszt and a partial translation, to an overall size of 27.5 x 24.25. In fine condition, with several mailing folds, a light shade of toning and a couple slight fold separations. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA. Oversized. Featured collection item.
