This is a pivotal work in
Brahms's oeuvre, one in which his compositional struggles--first as a symphony, subsequently as a concerto--are better documented than usual.
Add to that some brilliant brass playing, the horns especially, as well as some splendid string moments, and this was a
Brahms exploration well worth following.
In addition to the unique instrumentation of this piece,
Brahms had anticipated that it would be performed on the natural horn.
Brahms' Concerto for Violin and Cello will not be the only composition of this great composer presented by the DuPage Symphony Orchestra that night.
Her rich voice soared beautifully as the chorus whispered that God's comfort will be like a mother's, a reminder that
Brahms' grief over his mother's death inspired this piece.
Talking about the concert, Schroder said "we are really looking forward to this concert -- the music of
Brahms is very close to our hearts and we hope that the Cyprus as well as German public will enjoy the programme."
In 1880, his friend Hermann Deiters, a distinguished music journalist, undertook to write a biographical sketch of
Brahms, whom he had known since 1855.
It was early October, so with winter just around the corner,
Brahms would soon have to search for a secure place to hibernate.
"Critical Notes" describe the sources used to prepare this edition: the 1861 autograph, an engraver's copy, the original 1862 Breitkopf und Hartel edition, and
Brahms's personal copy from Breitkopf und Hartel's 1875
Brahms piano anthology.
It is believed that the piece titled Albumblatt, was composed by
Brahms in 1853, when he was 20 years old.
Llandaff Cathedral Choral Society (LCCS) will be teaming up with Meeta Raval for a performance of
Brahms' German Requiem.