Brahms Piano Trio, Opus 8, B Major, Allegro con brio

[gvans]

Johannes Brahms penned his first piano trio (for piano, cello, and violin) as a member of the Schumann household at the age of 21 in 1854 or so. Decades later, his publisher (Simrock, I think) asked him to consider revising it. He went at it like a fury, keeping some parts (the opening theme!) but reworking much of it. The first movement, presented here, has a new second theme and a vigorous development section, all written by the mature Brahms.

The revised piece, the version most commonly performed today, retains youthful inspiration and exuberance but combines it with the craft of a lifetime of composition.  

I understand not much chamber music gets posted here at Piano Street, but give this one a listen...it's one of the most beautiful pieces written, IMHO, and great fun to play. It is hard to keep one's emotions in check while performing it...The piano part is so lush one can get great satisfaction simply playing it solo.

Ah, Brahms.

The piano is a Steinway B, a 12 yo Art Deco modern version. A nice instrument. Please forgive the few mashed notes near the end of the exposition first time round...nobody's perfect!

[rachfan]

Hi gvans,

I totally enjoyed listening to this video of your trio performing this piece by Brahms.  This post offers superb music, a wonderful collaboration, and marvelous musicianship and artistry.  Bravo!

Also, thanks for providing that interesting background information on the composition. 

David

[gvans]

Thanks, David, for your kind words. Glad you liked it!
Glenn