Johannes Brahms
Johannes Brahms's (1833–1897) career as one of the great German composers was launched after Robert Schumann praised him as a sort of musical Messiah in the Neue Zeitschrift für Musik (1835). He earned a living in Vienna as a moderately successful composer, incorporating the romantic impulse with classical spirit. His conservative style sparked controversy between his supporters (among them Robert and Clara Schumann) and those of the dramatic “New German School” of Franz Liszt and Richard Wagner. Brahms continued to write in the traditional forms of “absolute” music (as opposed to “program” music, which strived to convey non-musical images). He saw himself as an heir to the classical tradition of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig wan Beethoven, although he felt the latter's long shadow looming over his shoulder so much that it took him two decades to finally compose his first symphony. His four symphonies are considered among the greatest in symphonic music. Other well-known works are the Violin Concerto in D (1878), and the Piano Concerto in B Flat (1878–81). He composed in almost every genre except opera, devoting special attention to chamber music and song. His lieder and other choral works such as the Ein Deutsches Requiem (“A German Requiem,” 1866) and the Alto Rhapsody (1869) are worldwide favorites.
Vocal Works Performed by the San Francisco Bach Choir
Ein deutsches Requiem, Op. 45
Liebeslieder Waltzes, Op. 52
Neue Liebeslieder Waltzes, Op. 65 (excerpts)
Nänie, Op. 82
Zigeunerlieder, Op. 103
For more information about the life and music of Johannes Brahms, see these websites:
