Johannes Brahms wrote the Four Klavierstucke or Four Pieces for Piano in 1893 and was the conclusion of his compositions for solo piano. The first three pieces are titled Intermezzo and the set is concluded with a rhapsody. Brahms is known for his use of the term intermezzo for his piano character pieces so it is surprising that three of the four in this set have that name.
The first intermezzo is in B minor and has a melancholic melody that is poetic. It is passionate and tender. Although there are moments that are fraught with determination, the melody overcomes and is transcendent. Intermezzo No. 2 travels to E minor and has a very animated character. It is much lighter than the first, but one can sense that there is still unrest behind the warm exterior.
Intermezzo No. 3 in C major has a character that is almost humorous and resembles a scherzo. The melody is articulated in the thumb of the right hand and occasionally has a thrilling arpeggio cascading down. Finally, the Rhapsody in E-Flat major begin with a grandiose opening before the theme enters in an entirely different character. This piece travels through several different themes the are reminiscent of the prior movements. Rhapsody in E-Flat Major ends in the parallel key of E-Flat minor.
Murray Perahia
Richard Goode
I love this set! I have listened to a lot of Goode's recordings but I think this is my first time seeing him play! He is very energetic - especially in the rhapsody!
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