Programme 89: Beethoven and Brahms Variations. Programme

Loading player...
Today we are continuing our exploration of the influence of Beethoven on later composers, especially Brahms, by listening to some compositions of each, which are in the popular category of Theme and Variations.

Three sets are by Beethoven, based on God Save the King, Rule Britannia, and one of his themes.

The other major work today is Brahms’ Theme and Variations on a theme of Handel’s.

This, along with my comments are designed to give you an insight into this centuries old structure, popular with audiences, composers and performers alike for hundreds of years!
17 Mar 2025 English South Africa Music · Music History

Other recent episodes

Programme 119 — The Noble Horn

Concertos for French Horn Noble, heroic, lyrical — and sometimes surprisingly intimate. The French horn possesses one of the most distinctive voices in the orchestra. In The Noble Horn, Brian follows that voice through three remarkable concertos by Mozart, Franz Strauss and his son Richard Strauss. Beginning with the natural…
14 Sep 58 min

about Music- Programme 118 The Golden Trumpet

The trumpet has long been associated with ceremony, triumph and brilliance, but behind its dazzling sound lies an instrument capable of remarkable elegance and warmth. In this programme we follow the trumpet's transformation from the noble natural trumpet of the Baroque to the expressive solo instrument of the Classical era…
31 Aug 1 hour

about Music-Programme 35 – Serenade by Starlight (Woodwinds + Strings)

Welcome to “about Music” with Brian. I have four Serenades for us in this programme. Our theme is Serenade by Starlight, and it is an easy listening programme that contains some well-known favourites. Composer- Title Programme Note Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus- Serenade in G Major K. 525 “Eine kleine Nachtmusik” Sparkling…
20 Jul 1 hour

Programme 117 Double Reed, Double Delight – Concertos for Bassoon

A concert celebrating the wit, warmth, and expressive voice of the bassoon — that most human of instruments, capable of both laughter and lyric song. Few instruments have as much personality as the bassoon. With its long wooden body and curling metal crook, it looks slightly eccentric — and sounds…
20 Oct 2025 1 hr 04 min

Programme 116 – Cor Anglais: Classical Roots and Romantic Voices

Welcome to today’s edition of “about Music” with Brian. Last week we listened to the Oboe, a double reed instrument with a bright treble penetrating sound. It is the familiar voice of the family. There are two more family members. The oboe d’amore, pitched lower in A, has a warmer,…
12 Oct 2025 59 min