BRAHMS' PIANO WORKS
Played by HOWARD JONES
Intermezzo in E Minor (Op. 119, No. 2)
Rhapsody in E Flat (Op. 119, No. 4)
IN the first piece we admire the resource which transforms the opening theme, with its quietly urgent rhythm, into a middle-section tune in the style of an old German dance of the waltz persuasion.
The E Flat Rhapsody is the last solo pianoforte piece Brahms wrote. The magnificent energy and breadth of the march-like opening and the delightful airy grace of the middle section have made it a great favourite.
Its variety of resource is stimulating, and the minor-key ending comes as a curious and powerful stroke of exhilarating effect.