From Wikipedia:

This frenzy first occurred in Berlin in 1841 and the term was later coined by Heinrich Heine in a feuilleton he wrote on April 25, 1844, discussing the 1844 Parisian concert season. Lisztomania was characterized by intense levels of hysteria demonstrated by fans, akin to the treatment of celebrity musicians today – but in a time not known for such musical excitement.

And:

Musicologist Dana Gooley argues that Heine’s use of the term “Lisztomania” was not used in the same way that “Beatlemania” was used to describe the intense emotion generated towards The Beatles in the 20th century. Instead, Lisztomania had much more of a medical emphasis because the term “mania” was a much stronger term in the 1840s, whereas in the 20th century “mania” could refer to something as mild as a new fashion craze. Lisztomania was considered by some a genuine contagious medical condition and critics recommended measures to immunize the public.

  • Letstakealook@lemm.eeEnglish
    13·
    9 months ago

    I’m going to see if there’s some modern concerts of this man’s work when I get home from the bar. He had to compose some absolute fire to cause that reaction in his era.

    • anyhow2503@lemmy.worldEnglish
      16·
      9 months ago

      He rose to fame through his skills as a pianist, probably being considered the best of his time (and very handsome). Maybe his freakishly long fingers helped his skill. I recommend the piano transcriptions of his third Liebestraum (S. 541) in A-flat major and his third Consolation/Tröstung (S. 172) in D-flat major, both among his most well known and popular pieces.

      • Letstakealook@lemm.eeEnglish
        13·
        9 months ago

        This right here is why I love lemmy. Thank you for sharing, especially because you have such specific knowledge/experience. I listened to both your recommendations, and they were great. They both invoke a lot of emotion, I can see how he caused a stir, lol.