Description
Brahms wrote this variation set on a theme left by Robert Schumann, as a tribute to both Robert and Clara Schumann, who were close friends and mentors to him. Starting from a lyrical theme, the variations range from introspective to dramatic. At around nineteen minutes, it is a substantial work requiring rich harmonic color and sustained concentration from advanced players.
Works written in theme-and-variations form, where a single melody is transformed in many different ways.
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.
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