In the distant past, I had the opportunity to be the host of several radio classical music programs. It began in Monterey, California, where I was the host for a Sunday program. I was able to select what music I played for my listeners. I also responded to people who called the radio station with their questions or comments.
I decided to have a brief musical “overture” to let the listener know that my program was about to begin. I always opened with the Intermezzo #2 in B-Flat by Johannes Brahms. Yes, I love that piece…
On our recording, today, you can hear many of Brahms’ shorter piano pieces, such as Intermezzi Op. 116, 117, and more.
Brahms announced his retirement from composing on more than one occasion, but these are among the last solo pieces he wrote for piano. By contrast, the Op 4 scherzo is the work of an eighteen-year-old, and the earliest he approved for publication.
Here is the Brahms masterpiece for your enjoyment:
