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Donald Macleod examines Liszt’s role in Chopin’s first meetings with the novelist George Sand, and explores how their relationship almost led to the composer being killed.

Early in 1837, Franz Liszt introduced Chopin to a woman who would have a profound influence on his life. Her name was George Sand and Chopin’s relationship with the novelist would go on to stretch for almost a decade and prove to be the longest romantic bond of the composer’s life, and a defining creative relationship for both of them. Over the course of this week, Donald Macleod explores the intertwined lives of these two key figures in French romantic-era life.

In Monday’s episode, Donald examines Liszt’s role in Chopin’s first meetings with George Sand. Initially, Chopin was repulsed by the notorious cigar-smoking, trouser-wearing novelist, but the pair eventually formed a romantic relationship which would last for nine years. Donald also explores how the beginning of their relationship sparked an incident which almost led to the composer being killed.

Impromptu No 1 in A flat major, Op.29
Murray Perahia, piano

Piano Concerto no 2 in F minor, Op.21 – I. Moderato
Martha Argerich, piano
Montreal Symphony Orchestra
Charles Dutoit, conductor

6 Polish Songs – Narzecczony (The bridegroom)
Luiza Borac, piano

Ballade No 1 in G minor, Op.23
Leif Ove Andsnes, piano

17 Polish Songs, Op 74: no.5 ‘What She Likes’; no.12 ‘My Darling'
Elzbieta Szmytka, soprano
Malcolm Martineau, piano

Etudes, Op.25 nos 1-6
Jan Lisiecki, piano

Producer: Sam Phillips