Johannes Brahms

Johannes Brahms (1833-1897) was a German Romantic master whose piano writing fuses Classical architecture with richly coloured harmony, securing his place among the revered “Three Bs” of music history. This list traces that evolution: the youthful, four-movement Piano Sonata in C major, Op. 1 is a concert-scale showcase graded Henle level 8 - difficult, best suited to advanced performers. From Brahms's late period come three poetic Fantasias, Op. 116 (Nos. 2, 5, 6), whose set is classed “medium”, yet Nos. 2 and 6 reach ABRSM Grade 8 and are regarded by pianists as technically and musically demanding. The lullaby-like Intermezzi, Op. 117 (Nos. 1-2) fall at Henle levels 5-6, offering expressive depth for late-intermediate players. Completing the selection, the tempestuous Rhapsody in E-flat, Op. 119 No. 4 carries a Henle level 8 rating, delivering virtuoso brilliance and dramatic sweep.