In spite of its less than creative title, Liszt's Klavierstück (Piano piece) is a charming work which expresses a soulful and meditative mood that was prevalent in many of his compositions. This brief work, only a minute and a half in length, is surprisingly complete and well developed. Opening with a rippling eighth-note figure, the melodic theme is passed back and forth between the treble and bass lines in a seamlessly lyrical pattern. As the piece progresses, the melody is expressed in the delicate cadence of the right hand while the left hand continues the fluid eighth-note theme. When the melodic line reaches a climax in the middle portion of this piece, it then rejoins the left-hand figure and gracefully transfers the melody to the bass line. Liszt then uses his favored technique of dividing the melody between the hands of his piano works to lift the melodic line to a contemplative and satisfying close.

Although brief, even by Liszt's standards, Klavierstück is a tuneful and creative work which should not be excluded from the repertoire of any accomplished pianist.

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