Brahms: Musical Analysis: Bernstein on Brahms, Symphony No. 4, Op. 98, 1st Movement - IX. "Well, We Have Had a Microscopic Look at Symphonic Method"
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Well, we have had a microscopic look at symphonic method, and perhaps
Now we can understand a little better what the nature of a symphony
Is. That it is not just the Jell-o mold of sonata form or rondo form
But form in the sense of constant growth, unceasing development
The creativity of life itself. I have purposely restricted our
Investigation to the first movement only, in order to use our time
For a more thorough look at developmental techniques, bar by bar. If
There were time, we would apply the same microscope to the other
Three movements and find other techniques, but always the same
Symphonic process at work. And yet the variety is fantastic
All due to his extraordinary powers of invention, which brings
Us back to poor old Hugo Wolf, who lamented that Brahms invented
Something out of nothing. Well, to be frank, I don't consider
This theme nothing: Do you? Or the second movement themes, this
One: and this beautiful second theme: Or the scherzo theme: Or
The Passacaglia theme: Are these themes nothing? Far from it
But the wonder is that whether or not they are nothing, Brahms has
Worked the miracle. For there is something divine in symphonic
Growth, something akin to creation itself. And Brahms' critics
Thinking to condemn him, have only succeeded in offering him the
Highest possible praise. Thank you
Hugo Wolf, for showing us the light