Johannes Brahms

Johannes Brahms was a songwriter and pianist born in Hamburg, Germany on May 7, 1833. Now considered one of the greatest composers of the Romantic era, Brahms started his musical career at a very young age. With musical influence and drive from his double bassist father, Brahms began playing the piano at the age of seven. After several years went by he began performing at local inns, brothels, and along city docks to help raise money for his family (Green).

He became close friends with renowned German composer and music critic Robert Schumann. This relationship further developed Brahms musical talent and ambition. He also helped Brahms name and works get into the spotlight and recognition he sought. Then Brahms became the conductor of a woman’s choir in Hamburg. At this time in his life he created the works of music “String Sextet in B-flat Major” and “Piano Concerto No. 1 in D Minor” (Johannes).

Then he moved to Vienna to continue his work there. In 1868 soon after the death of his mother he composed “A German Requiem,” which is based on biblical texts. Brahms never married but rather continued on his work composing. He went on to create “Double Concerto in A Minor,” “Piano Trio No. 3 in C Minor” and the “Violin Sonata in D Minor.” Being a perfectionist he threw away whole symphonies he wrote that he deemed unworthy. The pieces he did release become widely known and inspired future musicians. Years passed by and on April 3, 1897 he died from cancer (Johannes).

 

Green, A. (2014). Johannes Brahms. Retrieved April 07, 2014, http://classicalmusic.about.com/od/classicalcomposers/p/brahmsprofile.htm

Johannes Brahms. (2014). The Biography Channel website. Retrieved 02:36, Apr 07, 2014, from http://www.biography.com/people/johannes-brahms-9223886.