Saiko Allcity

Heinrich von Herzogenberg (1843-1900) is the best of the Brahms disciples. Not only does he sound like Brahms, but he comes as close to writing at the quality of Brahms as any other second-tier composer I’ve heard. He was himself a close friend of Brahms, who was reticent about expressing praise for Herzogenberg’s works. I’ve read some speculation that Brahms was envious of Herzogenberg’s abilities, and after hearing his piano trios and these cello sonatas, I can believe it. R.H.R. Silvetrust, the editor of the Chamber Music Journal said this about Herzogenberg's cello sonatas: "[they] are every bit as good, if not better, than Brahms'. In my opinion, they play better, the balance is better, the piano does not drown out the cello and the writing for the cello is more cellistic and grateful to play.”