In the introduction, the author focuses on Roma themes and motifs that inspired various 19th century composers. A Roma poetess, Bronisława Wajs, or Papusza, is discussed as an artist creating spoken songs derived from the folk song tradition. Next, the essay provides an overview of contemporary musical works inspired by Bronisława Wajs’s oeuvre, specifically Jan Kanty-Pawluśkiewicz’s symphonic poem Harfy Papuszy. In addition, the author offers suggestions for the bel canto technique and folk styles of singing in stylized works resembling world music – Roma music, in particular.
The aim of the paper is to analyze Franz Liszt's piano interpretations that constitute excellent operatic transcriptions and reminiscences from the operas of Gaetano Donizetti. There are seven piano works based on six of Donizetti’s operas, among them bar-for-bar transcriptions of particular fragments as well as masterly syntheses of many musical themes. We try to argue that Donizetti was an inspiration for Liszt and that the Hungarian composer was not only an eminent connoisseur and admirer of bel canto, but also made an important contribution to the rediscovery of Italian opera. These transcriptions are an excellent example of a sincere tribute from one great composer to another; they highlight some of the treasures among Donizetti’s compositions, as well as the talent of the author of the transcriptions.
JavaScript is turned off in your web browser. Turn it on to take full advantage of this site, then refresh the page.