Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat Major, Op. 83
Johannes Brahms
Work background
Researched classical background
Brahms's Second Piano Concerto expands the usual three-movement concerto into four substantial movements. A horn call invites an early piano response, while the added scherzo contributes exceptional weight to the design. In the slow movement, a solo cello introduces the principal melody before the piano develops it. Soloist and orchestra share the argument throughout a work of symphonic proportions.
A listening guide
Compare the piano's role with the horn at the opening and with the cello in the slow movement.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Solo piano and orchestra, with a prominent solo cello in the slow movement
Composition: 1878-1881
Sketching began earlier than the completed score and its 1881 premiere.
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.
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat major, Op. 83 - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Programme Note Piano Concerto No. 2 | Berliner Philharmoniker
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat major, Op. 83 - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Programme Note Piano Concerto No. 2 | Berliner Philharmoniker
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Browse by year
1960-2025. Each year contains 150 selections.