One very interesting aspect of Brahms’s career and composing was his desire (and ability) to compose what could be called “Hausmusik”, or music for amateurs or non-professionals. This was a very important type of music-making in the 19th century, given that symphony concerts were not as widespread as they are nowadays.

The Liebeslieder Waltzes were originally composed for piano four-hand and voices, and were influenced greatly by the works of Franz Schubert, one of Brahms’s most revered predecessors. The Waltzes have remained favorites since they were first heard in 1870. Another strong influence was Johann Strauss, the “Waltz King” in Vienna, whom Brahms admired greatly. Brahms referred to the Liebeslieder Waltzes as “pretty concert numbers.”