Brahms vs Beethoven
James Donaldson – cello
Kyoko Takashima – piano
- Beethoven Seven Variations on the theme “Bei Mānnern, welche Liebe fūhlen” from “The Magic Flute”
- Brahms Sonata in F Major
Which do you prefer, Beethoven or Brahms?
Pianist Kyoko Takashima joins Cellist James Donaldson in a clash of the titans, featuring Beethoven’s Variations on “Bei Männern, welche Liebe fühlen” and the dramatic Brahms F Major Cello Sonata.
In 1801, after hearing Mozart’s Opera “The Magic Flute” performed in Vienna, Beethoven wrote a set of 7 charming variations on the duet “In Men who Feel the Call of Love”. He was 31, already leading the world of music into a new and exciting era, and (one imagines) searching for a soulmate. It was Robert Schumann who declared Johannes Brahms as Beethovens musical heir. If Beethoven’s variations represent classical lyricism, Brahms’ F Major Sonata stands at the height of romantic heroism.
NCMA’s Lunchtime Concert Series are proudly sponsored by Nelson Pine Industries, GoldenEdge MDF
