Brahms: Complete Trios

Gustav Trio

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Johannes Brahms (1833-1897) composed three piano trios: Piano Trio No. 1 in B major, Op. 8, Piano Trio No. 2 in C major, Op. 87, and Piano Trio No. 3 in C minor, Op. 101. The first trio, originally written in 1854 and revised in 1889, balances youthful lyricism with mature refinement. Its heartfelt melodies and introspective passages reflect Brahms’ early Romantic inclinations. The second trio, composed in 1882, exudes warmth and structural clarity, featuring some attractive folk-inspired themes. The third trio, from 1886, is darker and more compact, epitomizing his later, more concentrated style.

The Horn Trio in E-flat major, Op. 40 (1865) is a singular gem in Brahms’ output, blending the rich timbre of the natural horn with piano and violin. Written in memory of his mother, the work expresses both poignant lamentation and pastoral serenity, culminating in a jubilant finale.

The Clarinet Trio in A minor, Op. 114 (1891), one of Brahms’ late works, arose from his collaboration with clarinetist Richard Mühlfeld. Its autumnal character, marked by wistful beauty and intimate dialogue between clarinet, cello, and piano, reflects Brahms’ contemplations on mortality.

Played by the Italian Gustav Trio, consisting of Francesco Comisso (violin), Dario Destefano (cello) and Olaf John Laneri (piano), with Lorenzo Guzzoni (clarinet) and Boštjan Lipovšek (horn)

Works:

•Brahms: Piano Trio No. 1 in B major, Op. 8Brahms: Piano Trio No. 2 in C major, Op. 87
• Brahms: Piano Trio No. 3 in C minor, Op. 101
• Brahms: Piano Trio Op. 114 in A minor
• Brahms: Piano Trio, Op. 40 in E-Flat major

CD x 2

Brilliant Classics

5/12/25

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