Description
Brahms wrote this dramatic scherzo as a teenager, before he had even met Schumann, and it already shows the intensity that would define his mature style, filtered through the influence of Chopin's own scherzos. The turbulent outer sections frame a more lyrical middle episode, creating a striking contrast that drives the piece forward. At about nine minutes with over six thousand notes, it demands both stamina and expressive range from an advanced pianist.
Works in scherzo form, known for its playful character, including Chopin's four scherzos that blend wit with dramatic power.
About the Composer
Johannes Brahms (1833-1897)
Johannes Brahms was a composer born in Hamburg who rose to prominence after being championed by Robert and Clara Schumann, later settling in Vienna. He fused classical formal rigor with Romantic expressiveness across symphonies and chamber music, and in his later years wrote many introspective piano miniatures. This site includes 25 of his works, such as intermezzi, waltzes, and ballades.
View all works by Brahms →