Uploaded June 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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A central expression of Franz Liszt’s multifaceted creativity was his lifelong engagement with transcription and transformation, using the piano as a medium capable of absorbing the sonorities, gestures and emotional weight of voices and orchestras alike.

In _Gaudeamus igitur_ (‘So Let Us Rejoice’), commissioned for the centenary of the Academic Concerts held at the University of Jena in 1870, Liszt squares participation with critique. Cast as a Humoreske, the piece oscillates between exuberance and distance; abrupt contrasts and exaggerated gestures suggest both celebration of and commentary on commemorative practice.

*Franz LISZT*
Gaudeamus igitur, Humoreske, S509/R200 (1869–70)
Michael Kaykov, Piano @MichaelKaykov

*LISZT: Choral Transcription (Complete Piano Music Vol. 69)*
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Trailer: youtu.be/AqamOsxEfTs
Playlist: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSlaa29EQHJ9i_l8E3I8sFsxJjgZ4VnzT

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