Brahms, Johannes

Johannes Brahms
May 7, 1833 – April 3, 1897

German composer Johannes Brahms is one of the most widely respected and enjoyed classical artists of all time. He is grouped with Bach and Beethoven as part of the Three Bs of classical music.

Brahms showed exceptional skill as a pianist from a very young age. He was the son of a double bassist who played in the Hamburg Philharmonic Society. Brahms began his career practicing in taverns, bistros, and brothels. As he grew into his twenties, he mingled with other talents, including composer Robert Schumann.

Brahms worked mostly from Vienna from 1862 onwards, where he focused solely on composing. He produced opulent symphonies, powerful concertos, as well as chamber music. His works are noteworthy for including clarinet.

A perfectionist, Brahms’ oeuvre is notable in its intertwining of the music elements of counterpoint and development within a structured, yet expressive form.

Notable works:
Academic Festival Overture
Piano Concertos #'s 1, 2
Violin Concerto in D
Hungarian Dances
Symphony #1 in C Minor