Franz Liszt: Music for cello and piano Franz Liszt was recognized by Western musical history as the most renowned performer of his time. When he decided to retire from the concert platform at the age of thirty-five to dedicate himself to composition, he left the limelight of the stage for the intimacy and isolation of artistic creation. Responding to a higher calling to consecrate more time to his art, Franz Liszt found his creative outlet in the form of his intransigent compositions. His public saw this change of discipline as an act of treason, how could he abandon his obvious calling as a pianist? Although his faithful followers stubbornly supported and performed his music, it was evident that there was little chance of recognition during his lifetime as a major composer. Looking back we see Liszt was responsible for the creation of the roots of twentieth century music and had an important influence on composers, notably Wagner. Today hi...