(via) The story behind “Brahms’ Lullaby” is one of the great stories of classical music lore. I won’t ruin it by telling you now, but the video above tells it beautifully.
Brahms’ penned the sleepy-time tune as the fourth lieder to his Wiegenlied Op. 49 in 1868. It has become one of the most recognizable melodies in the world. It has become a particular favourite of parents who sing the song to lull their babies to sleep at night.
The video, which is part of a video series with the CBC Radio 2’s Tom Allen, includes Toronto’s Gryphon Trio, bassist Jim Creeggan and soprano Patricia O’Callaghan.
As a bonus to the story: “Why not make a new edition in a minor key for naughty or sick children?” Brahms said. “That would be still another way to move copies.”
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