
Brahms: Piano Sonata No. 3 - Handel Variations
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1/7Critical Reception
Richard Wagner recognized the significance of Brahms's Handel Variations, commenting that it showed what could still be done with old forms by someone who understood them.
Compositional Technique
Brahms's Piano Sonata No. 3 has an unusual five-part form, with the first movement and finale framing two slow movements, and the scherzo at the center.
Compositional Technique
The second slow movement of the Piano Sonata No. 3, subtitled 'Rückblick' (a backward glance), transforms themes from the preceding slow movement into a desolate funeral march with trumpet and drum effects.
Composition History
Brahms completed his Piano Sonata No. 3, Op. 5, at age 20 while staying with Robert and Clara Schumann in Düsseldorf in October 1853.
Composer Biography
Brahms initially made his name as a pianist-composer and accompanist, playing a wide range of music by others and accompanying artists like violinists Reményi and Joachim.
Composition History
The Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel, Op. 24, was completed in Hamburg in September 1861 and dedicated to Clara Schumann on her birthday.
Composer Biography
Johannes Brahms, a budding virtuoso and child prodigy, grew up in Hamburg, earning money as a dockside tavern pianist in the evenings.















