Balakirev's ISLAMEY

[the89thkey]

I think this is an interesting piece; very technically challenging but manageable with practice. What thoughts do you have on it? Be sure to specify if you have played it or are learning it, or neither.

[andreslr6]

I've only heard it about 3 times, not a piece that I find attractive for me (maybe I need to hear it more and perhaps read it sometime), I know it's quite challenging technically.

The problem with virtuosistic pieces is that most of the time they lack from content. I know I'll probably get crucified after saying what I will say next, but... that's the problem I find with Liszt. To a certain point, his formula for composing was just theme and variations always, each variation focusing on certain technical problem and getting louder, etc.

Anyways, Islamey doesn't fall directly on that type of music, but that's a prejudice I generally have on virtuosistic music. 

[emrysmerlin]

You cannot simply compare Islamey with Liszt's mature works.

[the89thkey]

I never said the piece was great. I said it was interesting.
Personally I agree that it isn't really worth learning.