In doing research for symphonic literature and Foot Notes I learned about a progenitor, tone poems (also referred to as symphonic poems), orchestral music designed to embody the content of a different work of art (a poem, painting, etc.)

Below is a 4-hour compilation of Franz Liszt’s 13 original tone poems, beautiful music on its own that is lifted to new heights through its metatextual connections with cultural staples like Prometheus, Orpheus, Hamlet, and more.

An in-depth analysis of tone poetry’s connection to symphonic literature can be found in Foot Notes, releasing April 23rd (6 days.)

But for now, just enjoy the music.