Johannes Brahms, 1889 (New York Public Library Archives)
Impassioned romanticism and classical principles are reconciled in the masterworks of Johannes Brahms (1833–1897). Almost everything he wrote remains indispensable to the concert hall repertoire. With his soaring melodies, rich harmonies, and rhythmic vigor, Brahms has taken his place among the immortals, his name linked with Bach’s and Beethoven’s as one of the “Three B’s” of classical music.
Saul Lilienstein examines the breadth of Brahms’ extraordinary career, from his teenage years playing piano in the brothels of Hamburg to his sweeping triumphs in Vienna and international recognition as the greatest living symphonist. Explore the full range of his work—from symphonies, concertos, and overtures to his chamber music, songs, and choral music—in a series of programs highlighted by musical and DVD recordings.
SESSION TOPIC
The Chamber Music
Some of Brahms’ most beautiful music flows from the sounds of strings in the quintets, sextets, and septets of 1853, continuing through the lyrical introspection for his music for clarinet and strings, written near the end of his life in 1894.
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