Academic Festival Overture, Tragic Overture, Variations on a Theme by Joseph Haydn op. 80, 81, 56a

It is uncertain whether the chorale theme of 'Haydn Variations' is actually by Haydn. It is certain, however, that the Variations are characteristic of Brahms' mature orchestral style and his strict sense of form.

With 'Academic Ouverture', the composer expressed his thanks to the University of Breslau for giving him an honorary doctorate. Although the 'brooding' 'Tragic Ouverture' which had originally been intended for this purpose seemed no longer appropriate to Brahms for that occasion, it has always been a resounding success since its world premiere.

Critical score edited by Richard Clarke, alongside a recording by the London Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Marin Alsop.

180 Pages
Eulenburg Audio+Score EAS 151