Brahms: 8 Klavierstücke, Op.76

This is the first set of miniature masterpieces that were to comprise the remaining output of Brahms' solo piano music. It is not known precisely why Brahms quit producing large-scale piano works after the Paganini Studies, Op. 35, but the small size of the remaining works in no way lessens either their complexity or musical significance. They are all imbued with Brahms' now fully matured technique of "developing variation" in which the entire musical fabric is spun from germinal motives, often a single one for an entire piece. The intense and strict organizational principles, however, in no way detract from the emotional warmth and romantic color of these works. On the contrary, they serve to enhance and distill the emotional power in a way that gives these short works a gravity and sophistication that belies their small scale. The Capriccio in F sharp minor is restless and impassioned, alternating sweeping arpeggios with lyrical interludes. Playful is the best description of the Capriccio in B minor. In Brahms' best gypsy style, this piece subjects a wistful theme to a series of figurative transformations. The Intermezzo in A flat major consists merely of two ideas, played in succession twice. The first is legato syncopated chords against a gentle staccato accompaniment, and the second a lyrical rising melody. Darkly lyrical is the mood of the next Intermezzo in B flat major. The relaxed figuration and singing melody are in contrast to the chromatic and unsettled harmony. As the emotional center of the set, the Capriccio in C sharp minor is also the largest work. Full of complex rhythms and surging passages, this work is passionate and powerful. The Intermezzo in A major is an emotional respite from the previous Capriccio. It is comprised of two contrasting lyrical ideas, and is gentle and restive. The opening and closing refrains of the Intermezzo in A minor are somewhat reminiscent of the tone of the opening of the first of the Op. 10 Ballades. The reminder of the piece is a sadly wistful melody over a flowing accompaniment. The final Capriccio in C major is one of Brahms' most difficult short piano works. A whirling figuration leads to an exhilarating climax. The rhythm is highly complex and demands mature musicianship for an effective interpretation.