Johannes was the son of a double-bass player, who gave him his first music lessons. Home life was happy, if humble. His parent's ambition to make him piano prodigy were thwarted by his teacher, Cossel. He played in sailors' taverns, etc. His career was advanced by a tour with Hungarian gypsy violinist, Edouard Reményi. Meetings with Joachim, Liszt and Schumann encouraged him. He was deeply disturbed by Schumann's attempted suicide in 1854 and subsequent madness, and by his suppressed love from Clara Schumann. Brahms never married.

Brahms became director of music to Prince of Lippe-Detmold in 1857, giving him time to compose.

In 1863 he went to Vienna and remained there holding various posts.

The composition of several symphonies and a violin concerto and the second piano concerto gained Brahms the reputation as one of the greatest composers of the day. Brahms' music reflects both the austerity of his North German home and the sensuous charm of Vienna. He was also influenced by his early experience with Hungarian gypsy music. Another influence was the German folksong.

Later years were uneventful. He died of cancer the year after traveling to Clara Schumann's funeral.

My favourites:

• Piano concerto no 2 in B flat major
• Quartet in g minor for violin, viola, cello and pianoforte
• Double concerto in A minor for violin and cello

To Brahms' Principal Compositions
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