Johannes Brahms

Johannes Brahms was a German composer of the Romantic era who upheld the rigorous structural traditions of Beethoven and Bach while infusing them with rich Romantic harmony and lyricism. He is celebrated for his profound symphonies, intricate chamber music, and lyrical lieder. His work is characterized by intellectual depth, complex development, and a certain noble austerity. This 'absolute music' focus can make his work seem less immediately programmatic or flashy than some contemporaries.

He is considered the great traditionalist of his time, whose mastery of form and content created some of the most satisfying and enduring works in the repertoire.