A Comparatively late work of Brahms, this Trio has from the outset a sense of real bigness. The violin and 'cello alone begin the first big subject in octaves, and the second, more smoothly flowing, grows out of it so naturally that when the pianoforte begins it, it seems to be a continuation of the first. It is a long and elaborate movement, coining to an end with a quicker section in which the pianoforte has a strenuous part while the strings have a slower melody.
The theme of the slow movement has that simple folk-song character which Brahms' so often contrives to give his tunes. As in the first movement, the two strings begin in octaves while the pianoforte accompanies with chords. Another tune appears first as a pianoforte solo, and the opening returns in a more vigorous form. Then there is a flowing tranquil section, with a tune which the 'cello begins, to be followed by the violin.
The most striking feature of the Scherzo is the figure made up of rapidly repeated notes played by the strings while the pianoforte rushes upwards in scales. The Trio has a fine song-like melody which the violin begins with rippling accompaniment, and the Scherzo is repeated.
Again in the last movement the two strings play the first big theme in octaves at the outset while the pianoforte accompanies, and it is they also who introduce the second principal tune, another broad melody. Like the first the movement is an elaborate one, but with these two tunes in mind it is easy to follow and to enjoy.