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Composer

Johannes Brahms

1833 — 1897

AboutJohannes Brahms

An immensely precocious musician, Brahms came from a modest background and supported himself by playing the piano in taverns before studying music seriously. In 1853 he met Franz Liszt and, independently, the Schumanns – Robert and Clara – who welcomed him into their circle and encouraged his efforts as a composer. Their meeting soon blossomed into friendship. A three-year appointment as choral conductor at the tiny court of Lippe-Detmold allowed him time to continue his activities as a composer, but was followed by a period in which he devoted more time to practical music-making, both as a pianist and a conductor. Only after he settled in Vienna in 1862 did he devote himself fully to composition, although he continued to tour extensively. From 1872 to 1875 Brahms was director of the Gesellschaft der Musikfreunde in Vienna. He remained a lifelong opponent of opera and programme music, preferring, instead, to write "pure" music and to resist the reforms of the New German School spearheaded by Wagner. (Wagner returned the compliment by describing Brahms's works as "artificial and unedifying".) A Romantic who carried the torch of the Classical tradition, Brahms wrote Lieder, piano pieces and chamber music, but is remembered, above all, as the composer of four symphonies and four concertos – two for piano, one for violin and the Double Concerto for violin and cello.

Johannes Brahms: A Journey from Humble Beginnings to Revered Composer

Johannes Brahms, a uniquely talented musician, went from humble beginnings to becoming a revered composer. Born in 1833 into a modest background in Hamburg, Brahms initially earned a living by playing piano in taverns. However, he was already receiving formal music training from a young age, notably from teachers like Eduard Marxsen. His life took a significant turn in 1853 when he formed relationships with renowned composers like Franz Liszt, Robert and Clara Schumann. Their mentorship, friendship, and critical encouragement were instrumental in launching Brahms' trajectory as one of the central composers of the 19th century.

Brahms' Professional Journey and Notable Works

Brahms' professional journey expands over several years, including a stint as a choral conductor at the small court of Lippe-Detmold, allowing him space to pursue his ambition of composition. His talents extended beyond composition to include pianist roles.

In 1862, Brahms relocated to Vienna, where he dedicated his life to music creation. While settled in Vienna, Brahms served as the director of Gesellschaft der Musikfreunde between 1872 and 1875. Notwithstanding, he continued to undertake extensive touring.

Despite his lifelong opposition to opera and programme music, Brahms still left an indelible mark in the world of music. He was a staunch advocate for 'pure' music, championing the structures and forms of Classical composers like Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven at a time when others, such as Wagner and Liszt, were pushing music in radical new directions. This led to a famous divide between the followers of Brahms and those of Wagner. Despite resistance and criticism from the progressive "New German School," Brahms's work is noted for its emotional depth, intellectual rigor, and craftsmanship.

Brahms's output is extensive and influential, including four symphonies known for their structural mastery and expressive power. He also wrote two piano concertos, a violin concerto, and the Double Concerto for violin and cello—each celebrated for their technical and musical challenges.