Johannes Brahms and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, two great masters of classical music, were born on this date, May 7th, over a century ago. In 1833 and 1840 respectively, these men each entered the world destined to become two of its most influential composers. The profundity of both composers’ works helped shape the topography of Romanticism, combining worldly humanism with classical discipline. While Robert Schumann accurately predicted that Johannes Brahms would succeed Beethoven—a foresight which spoke to his acumen as a critic—Tchaikovsky similarly carved a wake through Russia and Europe with poignant works telling of crisis and wandering.
With great respect and reverence should these musical giants be remembered. Their works represent an era of musical humanism and affectation that has timelessly endured concert programs worldwide. So today, go and listen to what they’ve left us, as their work emanates the same potency today as it did in their lifetimes.