Brahms and Akademische Festouvertüre

While I know at least one person far more qualified to write about Johannes Brahms and classical music in general, I am going to take a leap here and discuss my respect, admiration, and appreciation for his works. (For biographical information, click on Johannes Brahms.)

The first being Academic Festival Overture, op.80 or Akademische Festouvertüre which was composed by Brahms in 1880 as tribute to the University of Breslau after being awarded an honorary doctorate. This particular version is from the album Brahms: Hungarian Dances, Academic Festival Overture, and Symphony No.4 in E Minor By Berlin Symphony Orchestra. I should also mention that the Chicago Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Sir Georg Solti is equally excellent.

I'm not certain I can give technical reasons why I love this particular piece, but I can say that Academic Festival Overture (at least for me) stirs the soul and wraps the listener in sheer joy. It's bright, crisp, and energized.

My second favorite Brahms composition is Concerto for Violin and Orchestra in D major op. 77 and specifically - Allegro giocoso, ma non troppo vivace - Poco piu presto under the direction of Herbert Von Karajan with Anne-Sophie Mutter on the violin. If ever a classical work brought about an adrenalin rush, it would be this violin concerto. It builds and grows to an explosive finish and Ms. Mutter's technique is nothing short of amazing! Allegro giocoso is heady, provocative, and all consuming.

As always, I love to hear from the readers - listen to these pieces and let me know what you think.