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The eight pieces which comprise the "Klavierstucke" Opus 76 were published in 1878.

This beautiful little Intermezzo in A major (Andante con moto) is a particularly poignant work.

(Recorded 3/20/13 - Mason and Hamlin BB) )

http://youtu.be/L_gjZ1k0dW4

Wonderful listening, carey! For some reason, the Op 76 set gets overlooked -- to me, it's mature Brahms, just as the magnificent op 116 - 119 sets are, and the Op 76 deserves to be heard with as much frequency. But, for some reason (at least in my experience), the pieces in this set are rarely programmed. For me, the emotional effect of this Intermezzo is similar to that of 119 - 3 -- it's intended to project a more optimistic, jocular mood, as a contrast to the grimmer, sadder emotions that Brahms was so eloquent at expressing. I thought you captured that quality very well in this performance.

Thanks for sharing!

Thanks Tim. I agree that the works in Opus 76 reflect Brahms at his best (he was 45 when they were published) and are just as wonderful as those in the later 116-119 sets. Like you, it has been my impression over the years that these pieces are rarely programmed - and they definitely deserve to be heard more often. While on the surface this particular Intermezzo is somewhat upbeat (major key, etc.), there is still a tinge of sadness and deep longing in it which I find quite moving.

Bravo! It's a shame that I have never heard this piece. I love the deep and tender feeling contained in this piece. I heard layers of nuances - like an echo of a tortured soul. Beautiful. Thank you for sharing.

Thanks FarmGirl !! Funny thing....I almost played this Intermezzo at your piano party last month - but after YOU performed the Opus 118 No. 2 (quite well, I might add) I decided, for variety's sake, to perform something by another composer instead. Of course, everyone should play the Opus 118 No. 2 at least once in their lives - but after that's accomplished, there are so many other wonderful short works by Brahms to choose from.

Carey, I was playing this piece at home just last night! I love it, and you played it quite nicely. I think I'll play this at our next piano party next month, thanks to your remark! I agree with you that the Op 76 pieces deserve a wider audience.

That's great Chris !! Have fun with it !!

Hope you are enjoying your reconditioned Baldwin !!

Thanks. The Baldwin has been excellent. Have to wait a bit more for the strings to stabilize before I record again.

Carey, oh, now you are telling me that we missed the live performance of the piece at my party! I can't have enough Brahms. For me the part of the attraction is that not played enough. Love the process of discovery. I mean trying to bring out hidden melodies that is carefully woven throughout. In contrast, I already own several versions of the Chopin nocturn recordings (also on Youtube) and I sometimes feel like I'm playing to a preconceived standard, consciously or unconsciously. Thank you for introducing me to the piece. I will remind you to play this next year at my party.

Cue Damon: "More __________!"