Brahms's Piano Concerto No. 1 began as a large-scale sonata for two pianos, which he played with Clara Schumann, before attempting to rework it into a symphony.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Brahms himself described the Adagio movement of his Piano Concerto No. 1 as a 'gentle portrait' of Clara Schumann, whom he considered the love of his life.
Critical Reception
The Leipzig premiere of Brahms's Piano Concerto No. 1 on January 27, 1859, was met with a 'distinct hissing' from the audience, despite a few attempts at applause.
Composer Biography
Johannes Brahms was a 'ruthless perfectionist' who had a lifelong habit of destroying any of his compositions that he considered imperfect.
Composition History
Brahms frequently sought the advice of his friend, violinist Joseph Joachim, during the composition of his Piano Concerto No. 1, leading to extensive revisions.
Compositional Technique
The first of Brahms's Four Ballades op. 10 is based on the opening lines of an anonymous Scottish 'Schauerballade' (chilling ballad) about a bloody parricide.
Notable Performances
The premiere of Brahms's Piano Concerto No. 1 in Hanover on January 22, 1859, was arranged by Joseph Joachim, Konzertmeister of the Hanover court orchestra, with Brahms as the soloist.
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Brahms: Piano Concerto No.1 in D minor/4 Ballades, Op.10
