Brahms’ reaction to Wagner’s Music

Brahms attended a Wagner concert in Vienna:

All through the concert Johannes sat in stony silence. At the close, when everyone was applauding vigorously, he still made no move or comment.  Finally his companion – beside himself with enthusiasm – cried: “What music! Wasn’t it marvellous?”

The composer raised his eyebrows a little.  Then he asked drily, “Aren’t you afraid you will spoil your new kid gloves – clapping so hard?”

Goss, Madeleine & Schauffler, Robert (1943) Brahms The Master. New York: Henry Holt and Company, p.183-184.


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