252. To Dr. Siegmund Lebert
Dear friend,
I keep a long-standing promise today, by sending you the 3 last Concerti by Beethoven arranged for 2 pianos. This arrangement is distinctly different from all other existing arrangements of the same Concerti for 2 pianos. Till now it has been the habit of arrangers to content themselves with setting the Tutti (or better, the orchestral parts) for the 2nd piano only, leaving the 1st to rest entirely or to support the 2nd according to inclination. By this a grievous disproportion in the effect of the orchestra parts is induced, let alone the fact that some of the arrangements are exceedingly scanty.
In my opinion this sort of proceeding belongs to the past and is hackneyed. What good is there it the first player sitting there at all, if he does not know how to take part in the whole? Ergo, I had to occupy him almost constantly.
As a matter of course I have not altered a single note of Beethoven's original version (of the so-called Soli parts), and have only added a tolerable amount of indications for pedal and fingering, for the convenience of pupils and teachers.
2 identical copies (printed on 4 lines—excepting the Cadenzas) are necessary for the performance of this arrangement.
It may prove useful and effective, as well in studing at the "homely fireside" and in musical schools, as also in performances in small concerts (where there is no orchestra), in Conservatoires, at examination: and drawing-room performances.
The chief title stands on the first page; on the 2 following ones are remarks for the printer, which I leave to your masterly hand as a pedagogue, dear friend, to render more distinct and to complete. With special regard I remain always yours sincerely,
F. Liszt
Rome, September 25th, 1879