Symphony No. 4 in E Minor, Op. 98
Johannes Brahms
Work background
Researched classical background
Brahms's final symphony develops concentrated musical ideas on a large scale. Falling intervals help generate the opening movement, while the finale builds a succession of variations over a recurring harmonic and bass framework. That concluding passacaglia draws on older musical practice without sounding like a simple historical exercise. The symphony ends with unusual severity, maintaining its minor-key tension.
A listening guide
Hear how the finale changes pace, texture, and intensity while returning to the same underlying pattern.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra
Premiere: 1885
Brahms conducted the premiere with the Meiningen orchestra; the date is labeled as a premiere, not the full period of composition.
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Symphony No. 4 in E minor, Op. 98 - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Symphony No. 4 in E minor, Op. 98 - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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