VA Brahms 2022

The stature of Johannes Brahms among classical composers is best illustrated by his inclusion among the "Three Bs" triumvirate of Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms. Of all the major composers of the late Romantic era, Brahms was the one most attached to the Classical ideal as manifested in the music of Haydn, Mozart, and especially Beethoven; indeed, Hans von Bülow once characterized Brahms' Symphony No. 1 (1855-1876) as "Beethoven's Tenth." As a youth, Brahms was championed by Robert Schumann as music's greatest hope for the future; as a mature composer, Brahms became the most potent symbol of musical tradition for conservative musical journalists, a stalwart against the "degeneration" represented by the music of Wagner and his school.

The stature of Johannes Brahms among classical composers is best illustrated by his inclusion among the "Three Bs" triumvirate of Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms. Of all the major composers of the late Romantic era, Brahms was the one most attached to the Classical ideal as manifested in the music of Haydn, Mozart, and especially Beethoven; indeed, Hans von Bülow once characterized Brahms' Symphony No. 1 (1855-1876) as "Beethoven's Tenth." As a youth, Brahms was championed by Robert Schumann as music's greatest hope for the future; as a mature composer, Brahms became the most potent symbol of musical tradition for conservative musical journalists, a stalwart against the "degeneration" represented by the music of Wagner and his school.

The later 19th century brought an increasing consciousness of national identity to various ethnic groups in Europe and elsewhere in the world. Antonín Dvořák, born in a Bohemian village where his father was an innkeeper and butcher, followed Smetana as the leading exponent of Czech musical nationalism, firmly within the Classical traditions of Central Europe. His early musical training was followed by employment for some years as a viola player, for a time under Smetana, and then, with the positive encouragement of Brahms, by a life primarily devoted to composition. Dvořák won recognition abroad and rather more grudging acceptance in Vienna. Between 1892 and 1895 he spent some time in the United States of America as director of the new National Conservatory, a period that brought compositions which combine American and Bohemian influence. At home again he was much honoured, resisting invitations from Brahms to move to Vienna in favour of a simple life in his own country. He died in 1904, shortly after the first performances of his last opera, Armida.

The stature of Johannes Brahms among classical composers is best illustrated by his inclusion among the "Three Bs" triumvirate of Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms. Of all the major composers of the late Romantic era, Brahms was the one most attached to the Classical ideal as manifested in the music of Haydn, Mozart, and especially Beethoven; indeed, Hans von Bülow once characterized Brahms' Symphony No. 1 (1855-1876) as "Beethoven's Tenth." As a youth, Brahms was championed by Robert Schumann as music's greatest hope for the future; as a mature composer, Brahms became the most potent symbol of musical tradition for conservative musical journalists, a stalwart against the "degeneration" represented by the music of Wagner and his school.

Capriccio continues to celebrate its 40th anniversary with this retrospective of some of the greatest instrumental recordings in its catalogue. Keyboard mavens include Ton Koopman, performing J.S. Bach; the great Christine Schornsheim, performing concertos by Bach’s sons; and Tzimon Barto, combining his muscular frame with a gentle touch in Brahms. Leading wind and brass players are represented by Burkhard Glaetzner (oboe), Eckart Haupt (flute) and Reinhold Friedrich (trumpet) in music by masters of the Baroque and Classical periods. And there are contributions from the ever-reliable Petersen Quartet, the inquisitive Linos Ensemble (whose exploration of new repertoire represents a Capriccio hallmark), and incomparable solo performers Tabea Zimmermann and Vladimir Spivakov with highlights for the upper strings. Altogether, a generous and enticing programme that is truly representative of the Capriccio label.

Claudio Abbado was one of the leading conductors of the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. He held a number of prestigious posts, any one of which would be a crowning achievement for a conductor, and his musical presence in both concert and recordings left an undeniable legacy of excellence. His family traced its roots to a prominent Moorish family expelled from Spain in 1492 and is said to include the architect of the Alhambra.

Von Chopin bis Einaudi, von Bach über Yiruma und Benny Anderson bis zu Filmmusik kommt hier die ultimative Peaceful Piano Edition. Mit dem Gütesiegel der Deutschen Grammophon sind legendäre Künstler aus den Bereichen Klassik, Neo-Klassik und Filmmusik versammelt. Als Besonderheit zeigt sich die genre-übergreifende Sammlung aus klassischem und zeitgenössischem Klavierrepertoire, mit dem Augenmerk auf einem kontinuierlichen und ruhigen Hörerlebnis, als Reise durch die vier Tageszeiten: Morgen, Nachmittag, Abend und Nacht. Die Musik gleitet kontinuierlich ineinander – perfekt zum Relaxen und Entspannen.

The events of Beethoven's life are the stuff of Romantic legend, evoking images of the solitary creator shaking his fist at Fate and finally overcoming it through a supreme effort of creative will. His compositions, which frequently pushed the boundaries of tradition and startled audiences with their originality and power, are considered by many to be the foundation of 19th century musical principals. Born in the small German city of Bonn on or around December 16, 1770, he received his early training from his father and other local musicians. As a teenager, he earned some money as an assistant to his teacher, Christian Gottlob Neefe, then was granted half of his father's salary as court musician from the Electorate of Cologne in order to care for his two younger brothers as his father gave in to alcoholism. Beethoven played viola in various orchestras, becoming friends with other players such as Antoine Reicha, Nikolaus Simrock, and Franz Ries, and began taking on composition commissions.

In their latest release for Champs Hill Records, distinguished baritone Roderick Williams and acclaimed pianist Roger Vignoles join forces once again to offer a stunning recording, this time inspired by their critically acclaimed Wigmore Hall recital of French Song.

First opened in June 2003, Pungwoldang is a cultural salon for classical music enthusiasts. It's filled with music albums and houses seminars, travel services, and a café.