Johannes Brahms 
(1833–1897) 

Symphony No. 4 in E Minor, Op. 98
Composed 1884-85

In his 1947 essay "Brahms the Progressive,"  Arnold Schoenberg extolled Johannes Brahms for his exceptional blend of inspiration and intellectual rigor. This unique combination is strikingly evident in Brahms' Fourth Symphony, a masterpiece seamlessly integrating emotional depth with structural complexity.

The 19th-century musical landscape was sharply divided between adherents of Richard Wagner and those of Brahms. Wagner, with his revolutionary "Music of the Future," pushed musical boundaries into new territories, believing Beethoven had exhausted the possibilities of symphonic form and urging future composers to innovate in other genres. Conversely, Brahms was often seen as a traditionalist, adhering to established forms and harmonic structures. However, this view overlooks Brahms' subtle yet profound innovations. Rather than abandoning established forms, Brahms reimagined them from within, combining Bach's contrapuntal techniques with Beethoven's harmonic explorations.

Brahms was deeply committed to the symphonic form, which he believed was in decline after Beethoven. His four symphonies were his efforts to demonstrate the genre's enduring relevance and potential for innovation. Composed during the summers of 1884 and 1885 in Mürzzuschlag, Austria, the Fourth Symphony stands as a testament to this commitment. In a letter to conductor Hans von Bülow, Brahms humorously compared the symphony to the local cherries, which he found unpalatable, expressing his doubts about the work. Despite these misgivings, von Bülow recognized its brilliance, describing it as possessing a "steely individuality" and unparalleled energy.

The premiere of Brahms' Fourth Symphony, performed by Hans von Bülow's Meiningen Orchestra on October 25, 1885, was warmly received. Eduard Hanslick, a prominent critic and lifelong supporter of Brahms, praised the symphony for its inventive symphonic structure, mastery of counterpoint, harmony, and instrumentation. The audience's enthusiastic reception included requests for encores of the first and third movements, which Brahms obliged, conducting with even greater intensity.

The first movement exemplifies Brahms' economy of material. The main theme, constructed from a simple four-note motif, is developed with endless inventiveness. This lyrical melody is transformed and expanded throughout the movement, showcasing Brahms' genius for thematic development Hanslick famously remarked that he felt as though he had been "beaten by two intelligent people," capturing the movement's intellectual rigor and emotional impact.

The second movement opens with a somber horn melody, transitioning from E minor to E major. This movement features excursions into the Phrygian mode, an ancient scale that imparts a unique, archaic quality. The initial austerity of the horns' melody gradually softens into the warm, lush harmonies characteristic of Brahms, culminating in a passionate cello melody. 

Marked by its energetic and humorous character, the third movement is a scherzo that pays homage to Beethoven's lively spirit. Opening with a vigorous burst of sound, it continues with robust rhythms and playful digressions, allowing Brahms' sense of humor to shine through. 

The final movement is a chaconne, inspired by the Baroque form of continuous variation. Brahms admired this form for its emotional depth and structural possibilities. In an 1877 letter to Clara Schumann, he expressed his fascination with the chaconne, noting its capacity to evoke "the deepest thoughts and most powerful feelings." The movement opens with powerful brass chords and unfolds through 32 variations and a coda, showcasing Brahms' mastery of form and his ability to blend structural rigor with profound expressiveness. The variations explore a wide range of emotions and textures, culminating in a powerful and exhilarating conclusion.

Brahms' Fourth Symphony is a cornerstone of the symphonic repertoire. It continues to captivate audiences with its structural innovations and deep emotional resonance. As Schoenberg highlighted, Brahms' work embodies a perfect balance of heart and mind, tradition and innovation. This symphony, performed countless times each year, remains a testament to Brahms' genius and enduring legacy in the world of classical music.

Instrumentation – two flutes and piccolo, two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons and contrabassoon, four horns, two trumpets, three trombones, timpani, triangle, and strings

Duration – 39 minutes

~ Kenneth Bean
Georg and Joyce Albers-Schonberg Assistant Conductor
Princeton Symphony Orchestra