RAG MusicClassic
Lovely classics

Brahms's masterpieces. Popular classical music.

Here are some recommended works from the many masterpieces left by the German composer Johannes Brahms.

If you get to know Brahms—hailed as one of the “Three Bs” of German music alongside Bach and Beethoven—you’ll be well on your way to becoming a classical music connoisseur.

His Symphony No.

1, composed with deep respect for Beethoven, was so strongly influenced by him that the conductor of its premiere, Hans von Bülow, famously called it “Beethoven’s Tenth Symphony.”

Please enjoy the world of Brahms, which continues to be cherished by classical music fans today.

Brahms’s Masterpieces: Popular Classical Music (41–50)

Hungarian Dances No. 1Johannes Brahms

Brahms / Hungarian Dances No. 1, WoO 1 / Piano Duo DUO
Hungarian Dances No. 1Johannes Brahms

Hungarian Dances, composed by the German Romantic composer Johannes Brahms using the music of the Hungarian Roma.

Consisting of a total of 21 pieces, the work was first published for piano four hands, after which Brahms wrote a solo piano version and even orchestrated it himself.

The strong personal attachment of the composer is evident, and No.

1, which opens the set, is among the most frequently performed of the 21.

It is a highly tense piece that conveys a sense of mounting unease.

Waltz No. 16, Op. 39 No. 15 “Waltz of Love”Johannes Brahms

Sixteen Waltzes, composed in 1865 by the Romantic master Johannes Brahms.

Among them, No.

15, the “Waltz of Love,” is widely cherished for its beautiful melody.

Originally written for piano four hands, it was later arranged for solo piano.

Its delicate, love-themed sonorities seem to permeate the listener’s heart.

Brahms’s characteristic complexities of rhythm and temporal nuance are also captivating.

A perfect piece for those who wish to revel in the piano’s graceful resonance.

Frequently used in TV dramas and commercials, it continues to enchant many.

It is a cleansing masterpiece that distills Brahms’s musical essence.

Two Rhapsodies, Op. 79 No. 1Johannes Brahms

Brahms: Two Rhapsodies, Op. 79 No. 1 in B minor — Piano: Eri Mantani
Two Rhapsodies, Op. 79 No. 1Johannes Brahms

This celebrated piece by Johannes Brahms, a leading composer of the German Romantic tradition, captivates with its passionate and powerful musical character.

Composed in 1879, it stands as a masterpiece from Brahms’s mature period.

The striking contrast between the intensely emotional outer sections and the serene middle section allows listeners to savor its rich sonority and grandeur.

As a solo piano work, it deftly fuses expressively lyrical melodies with virtuosic elements, stirring the listener’s heart.

It’s recommended for intermediate players who have a solid command of basic technique; with careful, patient practice, it should prove less difficult to perform than it sounds.

Two Rhapsodies, Op. 79 No. 1Johannes Brahms

Brahms: Two Rhapsodies, Op. 79 No. 1 in B minor — Piano: Eri Mantani
Two Rhapsodies, Op. 79 No. 1Johannes Brahms

A solo piano work composed by Brahms in 1879.

Consisting of two pieces, the work was originally titled “Two Piano Pieces,” but was later renamed “Two Rhapsodies.” No.

1 begins powerfully and expresses intense emotion.

Its structure features a quiet middle section before returning to vigorous motion, and it concludes softly.

For the repeated octaves and fortes, it is best to relax as much as possible to avoid tension in the wrist, aiming to convey strength through key-attack speed and the weight of the arm.

Two Rhapsodies, Op. 79 No. 2Johannes Brahms

Brahms: Two Rhapsodies, Op. 79 – No. 2 in G minor / Piano: Riyoko Iida
Two Rhapsodies, Op. 79 No. 2Johannes Brahms

Composed by Brahms in 1879, this work is distinguished by its octave theme hammered out in the lower register.

A contrasting melody with a dark, undulating motion in triplets appears, and this idea is treated developmentally in the middle section as well.

Elements of sonata form are strongly reflected, and throughout the piece one senses Brahms’s profound musical insight.

While respecting classical formal beauty, it also captivates with the passionate expression characteristic of the Romantic era.

It’s a highly recommended piece for those who want to challenge themselves both technically and expressively.

Two Rhapsodies, Op. 79: No. 2 in G minorJohannes Brahms

Johannes Brahms is one of the leading composers of the German Romantic school.

While honoring the formal beauty of Classicism, he left many works that also embody the lyricism characteristic of Romanticism.

The second piece of Two Rhapsodies, Op.

79, is striking for its grand main theme and its dark, surging triplet melody.

Within its passionate character, it preserves the framework of classical sonata form, and its performance demands advanced technique and deep musical understanding.

Though highly challenging both technically and expressively, it is a work I would strongly recommend to those who can dynamically convey a quiet, inner passion.

Rhapsodies, No. 2Johannes Brahms

Ragna Schirmer – Brahms Rhapsody op.79/2
Rhapsodies, No. 2Johannes Brahms

While it unfolds delicate, beautiful melodies characteristic of Brahms, it is a fiercely passionate piano piece.

Even as it takes on dramatic developments, it maintains an unbroken sense of continuity—truly masterful.

The piece was dedicated to Heinrich, formerly Brahms’s piano pupil, and his bride.