Intermezzo in B-flat major, Op. 76 No. 4

History

Brahms placed this B-flat Intermezzo fourth among his eight piano pieces, Op. 76. The set mixes pieces called 'Capriccio' and 'Intermezzo'; this one is marked Allegretto grazioso. Published in 1879, it shows how Brahms could build a complete character piece on a small scale rather than a sonata-sized argument.

Sources

• imslp.org
• henle.de
• musescore.com

What to listen for

1. 1

   Paired contours receive changing answers

   Opening paired contours lead to changing responses. Hear the shared shape while noticing how the answer turns away from it.

2. 2

   Low figures become denser before the repeat

   Denser low-register movement leads toward the repeat close. Listen below the upper sound for the continuing direction.

3. 3

   The opening returns with a changed descent

   Opening contours return in writing and receive a different descending response. Recognise the contour without expecting an identical continuation.

4. 4

   A rise leads to the final low sound

   Rising closing figures arrive at a final low sonority. Hear that change of register complete the longer phrase.

How to practise it

Keep the melody distinct from tied inner support.

1. Practise the inner tie first, then add the upper melody without replaying it.
2. Practise the lower rhythm alone and include each written tie before combining.
3. Connect the examined phrase at a comfortable tempo while keeping its stated layers and releases distinct.

How hard is it

About this piece

Licence

CC0

Source

musescore.com

More by Johannes Brahms

1. 1Waltz, Op. 39 No. 10, solo piano editionLevel 4, estimatedWith Maestro
2. 2Intermezzo in A major, Op. 118 No. 2Level 8, estimatedWith Maestro
3. 3Rhapsody in B minor, Op. 79 No. 1Level 9, estimatedWith Maestro