Brahms: Piano Quartet No. 1 / Variations and Fugue On A Theme by Handel

Immerse yourself in the rich, intricate world of Johannes Brahms with this captivating album, released on August 1, 1990, under the esteemed Chandos label. Spanning a total of 71 minutes, this collection offers a profound exploration of Brahms' mastery in classical and chamber music, featuring the full-bodied sound of an orchestra.

The album opens with Brahms' Piano Quartet No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 25, masterfully arranged for orchestra by Arnold Schoenberg. This four-movement work is a testament to Brahms' compositional prowess, blending intimate chamber music sensibilities with the grandeur of orchestral performance. Each movement, from the stirring Allegro to the lively Rondo all zingarese, showcases Brahms' ability to evoke a range of emotions and moods.

The second half of the album presents Brahms' Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel, Op. 24, orchestrated by Edmund Rubbra. This impressive set of variations begins with the Theme: Aria, followed by a series of 25 variations that display Brahms' virtuosic handling of Handel's theme. The album concludes with a powerful Fugue, leaving the listener with a lasting impression of Brahms' genius.

Throughout the album, Brahms' deep understanding of musical form, harmony, and expression is evident. His works, performed with skill and passion, offer a glimpse into the heart of 19th-century classical music. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Brahms or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.