Johannes Brahms

A true classical master

Biography

Johannes Brahms (1833-1897) was a German composer and pianist of the Romantic period, revered for his symphonies, chamber music, and piano works. Born in Hamburg, Brahms displayed early musical talent and received his first musical education from his father and local musicians. He was later mentored by Robert Schumann and his wife, Clara Schumann, who became lifelong friends and significant influences on his career. Brahms's music is known for its structural integrity, lyrical beauty, and emotional depth, often blending classical forms with Romantic expressiveness. Throughout his life, Brahms remained a staunch traditionalist, often juxtaposed with the more progressive Richard Wagner. Despite his sometimes gruff exterior, Brahms was deeply introspective, and his works reflect a profound depth of feeling and technical mastery.

List of Notable Works

  • Symphony No. 1 in C minor, Op. 68
  • Symphony No. 3 in F major, Op. 90
  • Symphony No. 4 in E minor, Op. 98
  • Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15
  • Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat major, Op. 83
  • Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 77
  • Ein Deutsches Requiem (A German Requiem), Op. 45
  • Hungarian Dances
  • Piano Quintet in F minor, Op. 34
  • Intermezzi, Op. 117
All works

Links

Visit these links for more information about Johannes Brahms

The Johannes-Brahms-Association

The association holds in its possession Brahms memorabilia, writings, facsimiles, musical artefacts, and photographs and piano, all of which are on display in the Brahms-Museum in Hamburg.

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The Brahms-Institut

The Brahms-Institut is displaying valuable music manuscripts, letters, photographs, and other sources on Johannes Brahms and his circle in Villa Brahms in Lübeck.

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