Among his very last works, Brahms's three sets of miniatures for piano op. 117, 118 and 119 are beautiful and emotive pieces that Brahms himself called 'lullabies of my pain'. French pianist François Chaplin plays them alongside the Rhapsodies op. 79, two equally powerful and melancholic works written a few years earlier.
Featuring
François Chaplin
Johannes Brahms
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Composer Biography
In 1890, at age 57, Johannes Brahms believed his composing career was over, intending to devote himself to reading, travel, and solitary walks.
Instruments
This recording features a Bösendorfer Vienna Concert 280 piano, serial number 51122, prepared and tuned by François-Xavier Soulard.
Compositional Technique
The first of Brahms' Three Intermezzi, Op. 117, includes a poetic exergue from a Scottish ballad, a rare occurrence in his compositions.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Brahms' late piano cycles, including those on this album, are characterized by themes of unrequited love, solitude, and the solace found in nature.
Performer Biography
This recording marks a return to the performer François Chaplin's roots, as his first recording at age 25 was also dedicated to Brahms.
Compositional Technique
The Two Rhapsodies, Op. 79, despite their title, have a strictly controlled form, unlike the usually looser structure of rhapsodies.
Compositional Technique
Brahms' later works, including those on this album, abandoned dramatic changes and large forms in favor of miniature pieces with an intimate, often autumnal character.
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Brahms: Rhapsodies, Op. 79; Intermezzi, Op. 117; Six Piano Pieces, Op. 118
