Credits:

Brahms (1833-1897)

Description:

Brahms is often recognized as a composer of profound symphonies and chamber music in the "Beethovenian tradition," but in fact he was also a coffeehouse lover who found pleasure in the company of his closest friends. The "Love Songs" is a collection of songs that exude this endearing side of Brahms. Originally based on 18 poems by the German poet Daumer, the piece was written for mixed chorus and four hands, but Brahms later modified it so that it could be played by four hands alone. The pieces were probably intended to be played by a group of friends. They are all enjoyable little pieces with no stiff shoulders. The "New Love Songs" is a collection of songs written in response to the popularity of his "Love Songs" and "Hungarian Dances," and is also a cohesive collection of songs in the style of the folk melodies he loved so much. The Latvian Radio Choir, led by Kryava, is a surprisingly intimate ensemble. Naxos Japan