Brahms: Hungarian Dances Nos. 11-21 (version for orchestra)
5/23/2025, 11 Tracks, 23:56
Featuring
Roberto Abbado
Münchner Rundfunkorchester
Johannes Brahms
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Performer Biography
Roberto Abbado, the conductor on this album, was chief conductor of the Münchner Rundfunkorchester from 1991 to 1998.
Composition History
Johannes Brahms learned about Hungarian melodies and scales from the Hungarian violinist Eduard Reményi, with whom he toured Germany in 1853.
Critical Reception
Despite early printed editions crediting Brahms as the arranger, fierce disputes arose over the authorship of the melodies, with some claiming Brahms stole them.
Historical Context
Hungarian folk music and the melodies of itinerant musicians were immensely popular in Western Europe from the early 19th century, driving the enthusiasm for 'gypsy romanticism'.
Composition History
Brahms's Hungarian Dances for piano four hands were composed starting around 1858, with the first ten published in 1869 and the rest in 1880.
Cultural Impact
The immense popularity of Brahms's Hungarian Dances led to numerous arrangements by other musicians, including his friend, violinist Joseph Joachim.
Cultural Impact
The Hungarian Dances were extremely popular from their inception and remain among Brahms's best-known works today.
