Inhalt:
These two serenades reflect Brahms's interest, during the years 1858 and
1859, in the symphonies of Haydn and Mozart, as well as the latter's
exquisite divertimenti, scored for small instrumental ensembles. Serenade No.
1 in D major was in fact originally composed for nine woodwinds and solo
strings, then later rescored for full orchestra. Its six movements graceful,
melodious, and light-textured reflect the elegance of the Mozart model while
entertaining us with Brahms's characteristically spacious, flowing themes.
Serenade No. 2 in A major for Small Orchestra was a favorite of Brahms warm,
intimate, and darkly colored because of the unusual absence of
violins.Referring to the work as his beautiful opus, the composer often
reflected on its delicacy and the severe test of performing its pensive
Adagio, the third movement of five. This attractive, inexpensive edition
combining both serenades in a single volume is sure to appeal to a wide
audience of musicians and music lovers.