Liszt and the Devil: Introduction (04:26)

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The New York Philharmonic performs a portion of the "Faust Symphony." Franz Liszt's non-piano music is rarely played in concert. This program will examine the orchestral work.

Story of Faust (06:08)

Commoners believe Dr. Faust sells his soul to the devil for knowledge and power. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's drama inspires the symphony; the three movements paint portraits of each character. Leonard Bernstein describes how Liszt identified with Faust..

"A Faust Symphony in Three Character Pictures": Faust Analysis (09:43)

The first movement is devoted to the scholar who searches for the meaning of life. Bernstein discusses how Liszt influenced atonal music and the transformation of major musical themes. The New York Philharmonic plays excerpts to illustrate concepts.

"A Faust Symphony in Three Character Pictures": Faust Performance (07:06)

Bernstein conducts the New York Philharmonic in a portion of the first movement of the Liszt composition.

"A Faust Symphony in Three Character Pictures": Gretchen (03:46)

Faust signs a contract with the devil to receive youth, love, and power during his lifetime in exchange for his soul; Gretchen is innocent, pure, and beautiful. Bernstein describes why there is only one major theme in the movement, portrayed by an oboe.

"A Faust Symphony in Three Character Pictures": Mephistopheles: Analysis (06:30)

This movement is a transformation of previously played themes. Faust is caught in the clutches of the devil; Gretchen's soul is saved and Faust goes to heaven. Bernstein describes similarities between Liszt and Faust.

"A Faust Symphony in Three Character Pictures": Mephistopheles: Performance (11:12)

Bernstein conducts the New York Philharmonic in the final movement of the Liszt symphony.

Credits: Liszt and the Devil (00:57)

Credits: Liszt and the Devil