Llŷr Williams, the pianist on this recording, is known for his profound musical intelligence and expressive interpretations, and has a long-standing relationship with Signum Records.
Composer Biography
Johannes Brahms, the composer, was born into poverty in Hamburg and began earning money by playing piano in bars and brothels as young as thirteen.
Composer Biography
Brahms and Clara Schumann, Robert Schumann's wife, maintained a close, platonic relationship throughout their lives, corresponding and sharing music, and neither ever married anyone else.
Composition History
The year 1853 was pivotal for Brahms, as he went from an unknown young musician to being thrust into the international spotlight.
Composition History
Brahms's 'Variations on a Theme of Schumann', Opus 9, was completed immediately after Robert Schumann's attempted suicide and entry into an asylum, reflecting a sudden maturity in Brahms's creative output.
Composer Biography
Brahms's first piano teacher, Otto Cossel, passed him on to Eduard Marxsen, who taught him piano and composition for free because the family could not afford lessons.
Composition History
Robert Schumann, a renowned composer, hailed Brahms as a genius in an article, which helped launch Brahms's career.
