Tonight’s performance has been made possible by the generosity of Hal Hunt.

Brahms’ music is often described in melancholic terms. In the spectacular Sextet in G Major, Op. 36, the description holds true… for about two bars. A brooding half-step ostinato in the viola gives way to a long passage of increasing anticipation. Reaching a peak, the phrase finally reveals the object of anticipation, Agathe von Siebold, a soprano with whom Brahms had been previously engaged to be married. Brahms spells Agathe’s name in musical pitches. How, you ask? Tasting Music 1 will reveal the trick and much more about this glorious work, a favorite of string players the world over.

Johannes Brahms (1833-1897)

BRAHMS SEXTET IN G MAJOR, OP. 36

I. Allegro non troppo 
II. Scherzo. Allegro non troppo 
III. Poco Adagio 
IV. Poco Allegro

Artists: Timothy Christie, viola; Norbert Lewandowski, cello; Stephen Miahky, violin; Laura Renz, viola; Maria Sampen, violin; and Meta Weiss, cello.