Johannes Brahms ： Hungarian Dance No.19 in h-moll WoO.1

This work is marked by the shaded sonority of B minor and the lively rhythm of a dance. Crisp accents and contrasts in dynamics give the music its forward momentum, while thematic passages alternate with sections of contrasting character to shape its flow. Listening for the exchange of short phrases and changes in rhythm reveals a wealth of expression within its concise design. In performance, it is important to maintain a buoyant beat without becoming too heavy, articulate rests and accents clearly, and allow the melody to emerge naturally. A steady tempo and careful control of dynamics bring out both the vitality and the wistful quality of the piece.