Brahms's publisher, Simrock, had to wait four years for the Opus 51 quartets to be published, as Brahms was very particular about their release.
Compositional Technique
The String Quintet No. 2 in G, Op. 111, reaches a polyphonic density and near-symphonic dimension, with its opening theme possibly intended for an abandoned fifth symphony.
Critical Reception
The String Quintet No. 2 in G, Op. 111, was an unqualified success at its Vienna premiere and was nicknamed 'Prater-Quintett' after a famous Viennese promenade.
Composition History
Johannes Brahms composed at least twenty string quartets before deciding to complete the Opus 51 twins, which include the String Quartet No. 2 in A minor.
Composition History
The String Quartet No. 2 in A minor, Op. 51 No. 2, was dedicated to Brahms's friend, Dr. Theodor Billroth, a surgeon who also received the original manuscripts.
Composer's Artistic Vision
For Brahms, the string quartet was a genre of strict organization, emphasizing polyphony in four equally important voices, contrasting with the spontaneity of his piano writing.
Performer Biography
The Pražák Quartet, like many Bohemian ensembles, was founded by students at the Prague Conservatory and won First Prize at the Evian International Competition in 1978.
