Composer

:

Johannes Brahms

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Intermezzo

Compose Date

:

1892

Average_duration

:

5:57

Johannes Brahms composed his Intermezzo for piano in C sharp minor, Op. 117/3, in 1892. The piece was premiered in Vienna on January 15, 1893, by the composer himself. The Intermezzo is the third of three pieces in Brahms' Op. 117 set of piano pieces. It is a slow and introspective work, with a melancholic and nostalgic character. The piece is in ternary form, with a central section that contrasts with the outer sections. The opening section of the Intermezzo is marked Andante moderato, and features a lyrical melody in the right hand over a simple accompaniment in the left hand. The melody is characterized by its expressive phrasing and use of rubato, giving the impression of a singer's voice. The middle section, marked Più andante, is more agitated and features a more complex texture, with a series of arpeggios in the right hand and a syncopated accompaniment in the left hand. The final section returns to the opening material, but with some variations and embellishments, before ending with a quiet and introspective coda. The Intermezzo is typical of Brahms' late style, which is characterized by a focus on small-scale forms and a more introspective and personal expression. The piece is notable for its use of chromaticism and harmonic ambiguity, which create a sense of emotional tension and ambiguity. The Intermezzo has become one of Brahms' most popular piano works, and is often performed and recorded.

More....