What was Brahms' central idea about musical composition?
My central idea, if you must pin it down, is the fusion of classical form with Romantic feeling. I believe one must work like a craftsman, mastering the tools of counterpoint and thematic development, as did Bach, before one can truly express oneself. Take my Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat major; it is a grand structure, but within its proportions, there is ample room for lyricism and passion. The Romantic spirit should not be a wild, untamed force, but rather one that is shaped and controlled by intelligent design. Es muss sein that balance.
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