Claire Allen, violin
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A Word About Brahms

11/10/2013

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Next week, some good friends of mine and I are performing a recital of music by Johannes Brahms, the beloved German composer of the Romantic era. See my Performance Schedule for all the details about the recital, if you'd like to attend.

Normally, a recital showcases an individual performer and displays their talents in the works of numerous composers and styles. This recital is different with four artists performing the work of a single composer.

Brahms is a composer I've always admired and loved, but last year I got to know his music in much more of an intimate way. I performed his second violin sonata on his master's recital (which I'll also be performing next Sunday!), lived and breathed his magnificent piano quintet for a whole year, and was fortunate enough to play the Fourth Symphony under the baton of one of the greatest living musical artists, Leon Fleisher. Whether in an intimate chamber setting or a grand orchestral one, Brahms never fails to satisfy.

Over the last year I really feel that Brahms has become a friend to me, and his music has been a joy and a refuge. When I need to be energized and empowered, I listen to his sweeping and epic symphonies. His fast movements hum with vitality and rush over you like a wave of sound. His slow movements can warm your heart and make you feel as if you're speaking with a dear, close friend or bring tears to your eyes with the tenderness.

The music of Brahms has tremendous heart. I'm playing two very different pieces - the fiery Scherzo from the F.A.E. sonata, a piece with a fast, turbulent theme in a minor key, and the warm, open, and loving Violin Sonata No. 2. 

I sincerely hope you'll join us.

Listen below to one of my favorite movements from Brahms - the beautiful second movement of the Fourth Symphony.
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