Franz Liszt, a pivotal figure of 19th-century Romanticism, often took inspiration for his piano works from events in his own life. Many of these compositions are program music—pieces with extra-musical associations. In this lecture-recital, Dr. James Litzelman will give background and historical context for the pieces, as well as show images and videos that correspond to the music. Works to be performed include Funérailles, Bénédiction de Dieu dans la solitude and the two St. Francis Legends.

Dr. Litzelman has been a member of the piano faculty at The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC since 1993, where he teaches applied piano and courses in piano pedagogy and musicians’ wellness. He enjoys a successful career as a pianist, teacher, lecturer and adjudicator, having performed and lectured in the United States, Mexico, Europe, China and Russia. In demand for master classes, adjudicating and workshops, he regularly presents lectures nationally and internationally to music organizations and has judged competitions throughout the eastern and southern United States.