Johannes Brahms The Conductor

The purpose of this book is to examine the circumstances surrounding Johannes Brahms as a conductor. While many studies, books and articles have discussed his compositional processes and individual works, none have focused their attention on conducting in his artistic life. A premise of this book is that an examination of Brahms experiences as a conductor and the compilation of historical evidence into a single document will lead to a better understanding of Brahms as a musician. The book offers information pertaining to nineteenth-century definitions of conducting, with specific concentration on German conductors and a compilation of historical details surrounding Brahms activities as a conductor. Included is a chronological listing, with locations and repertoire, of Brahms specific conducting appearances. At the core of the investigation is information that reveals insight into Brahms conducting demeanor, style, and technique as reported by musicians, critics in the press, and his close circle of friends. The book concludes with numerous translations of contemporary German language concert reviews.