Johannes Brahms

Johannes Brahms (1833–1897) united classical rigour with romantic warmth. His four symphonies, two piano concertos, the German Requiem and dozens of chamber works are cornerstones of the concert hall — music of deep craftsmanship, autumnal lyricism and quiet power.

A perfectionist who destroyed more scores than he published, Brahms left a catalogue where every piece earns its place. His melodies — from the famous Lullaby to the finale of the First Symphony — feel at once inevitable and profoundly human.