What are Rhapsodies?

Rhapsodies are expressive musical compositions that often feature a free-flowing structure, allowing for improvisation and emotional depth. They typically combine various themes and styles, drawing from different musical traditions, and are known for their dramatic contrasts and lyrical passages. The term is commonly associated with works for piano, such as Franz Liszt's "Hungarian Rhapsodies," but can also apply to orchestral and vocal compositions. Overall, rhapsodies aim to evoke strong feelings and showcase the virtuosity of the performer.