Valses Opus 39

While the Hungarian dances of Brahms rely on a brilliant and spirited virtuosity, his 16 Valses op. 39 are more modest and intimate. Their popularity is however not outdone by the Dances: who does not know the number 15, a sweet lullaby whose melody counts among the best-known finds of the pen of Brahms. His publisher must have anticipated the success of this collection, because soon after the publication of the original version for piano four hands in 1866, he also ordered the composer a version for piano with two hands. We propose the latter in a revised edition, based on the text of the new complete edition of Brahms' works.