I mentioned in the book reading thread that I am reading the Swafford biography of Brahms. Swafford is himself a composer as well as writer/historian. One of the most interesting parts of the biography are his analyses of Brahms' compositions.

So that i can better understand what he's talking about, I've been googling each piece and then listening on my phone as I read. Swafford isn't crazy about Brahms' string quartets, but I think the A minor is just glorious. Like much of Brahms, it can be intolerable if not played well, but I found this wonderful live performance by the Jerusalem Quartet in the Marinsky Theater, and I just had to share.

Something to inspire and elevate in our chaotic times..

Brahms by the Jerusalem

Especially over the moon hearing the final movement (unfortunately there are ads, but it's worth dealing with them to hear this.).

Listened to it last night. Beautiful.

Thanks. Will listen! Heard good things about Swafford’s books. He shows up in my FB feed now and then.