The long first movement of the Brahms violin concert features sequences of turbulent emotion, sometimes interwoven and sometimes quick-cut with dreamy lyricism.
The Adagio is justly famous for the great oboe melody at its foundation. As you listen to the oboe sing, listen also to the winds around it, forming the harmonies that create the magically serene atmosphere.
When the soloist enters with a variant of the oboe tune, violin and orchestra combine, bringing us a sublime unity of sounds.
In the finale, Brahms returns to the Gypsy spirit that shows up frequently in his compositions. Of course there’s more to it, for in the midst of the dance comes a poignant songlike interlude, just after the first return of the great theme that opens the movement.
Here is Janine Jansen to play this amazing music for you:
