Johannes Brahms - Sonaten für Viola und Klavier - Johannes Brahms

Experience the profound beauty of Johannes Brahms' late masterworks with this exquisite recording of his two sonatas for viola and piano, Op. 120. Released in 1997 on the prestigious ECM New Series label, this album captures the essence of Brahms' romantic style, offering a intimate glimpse into the composer's final years of creativity.

The album features the renowned violist Kim Kashkashian and pianist Robert Levin, who bring a deep understanding and sensitivity to these intricate compositions. The sonatas, originally written for clarinet and piano, were transcribed by Brahms himself for viola and piano, adding a rich, mellow timbre to the already expressive pieces.

The album opens with the Viola Sonata in E-Flat Major, Op. 120 No. 2, a work that showcases Brahms' mastery of form and harmony. The first movement, Allegro amabile, is a lyrical and expansive piece that sets the tone for the rest of the work. The second movement, Allegro appassionato, is a fiery and dramatic scherzo, while the final movement, Andante con moto – Allegro non troppo, is a poignant and introspective conclusion.

The second sonata, in F Minor, Op. 120 No. 1, is a more introspective and melancholic work. The first movement, Allegro appassionato, is a turbulent and passionate piece, while the second movement, Andante un poco adagio, is a slow and reflective interlude. The third movement, Allegretto grazioso, is a playful and lighthearted scherzo, and the final movement, Vivace, is a lively and energetic conclusion.

With a total duration of 44 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to Brahms' chamber music for those new to his work, as well as a valuable addition to the collections of seasoned classical music enthusiasts. The album's elegant packaging and high-quality recording make it a standout release in the ECM New Series catalog.

Johannes Brahms, a titan of the Romantic period, was a German composer, pianist, and conductor whose music continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Born in Hamburg in 1833, Brahms' early life was marked by modest beginnings, yet his prodigious talent quickly became evident. His compositions, which span symphonies, concertos, chamber music, piano works, and choral pieces, are celebrated for their rhythmic vitality and expressive contrapuntal textures. Brahms' ability to blend emotional depth with structural precision is unparalleled, earning him a place among the "Three B's" of classical music, alongside Bach and Beethoven. His works, such as the Academic Festival Overture and the German Requiem, showcase his mastery of rhythm, movement, and orchestration. Brahms' influence on the Romantic movement is immense, and his legacy endures as one of the most significant composers of the nineteenth century.