Comparison of Johannes Brahms's Rhapsody, op. 119, no. 4 and Rhapsody no. 2 in G minor, op. 79

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Abstract

This research paper examines the defining characteristics of Johannes Brahms’s piano works. Focus is concentrated on the Rhapsody from Op. 119, No. 4 and Rhapsody No. 2 in G Minor, Op. 79. Analysis of these piano works indicates Hungarian influence, particularly the style hongrois. This musical style, often used by Western composers, mimicked the style of Hungarian Gypsy music. Features of the style hongrois include the gypsy scale, five-bar phrasing, and the kuruc-fourth. Focusing on features of the style hongrois assists in explaining the extent of Hungarian musical characteristics in the rhapsodies composed by Brahms.