The prestigious German composer Johannes Brahms had a very humble introduction to the musical world. His first lessons were from his father; later, he studied with Eduard Marxen. As a youth, Brahms made money playing in taverns. Eventually, Brahms was heard by Liszt and Schumann. Both liked his style, but Brahms never became close to Liszt. Schumann and his wife, Clara, however, became fast friends and staunch supporters. In fact, Schumann was responsible for the publication of Brahms' three piano sonatas. Brahms traveled extensively over the next few years, settling in Vienna in 1878.
Although he wrote only fifteen pieces for organ, they indicate Brahms' vast knowledge of the instrument. His organ compositions are deeply rooted in traditional forms. Labeled conservative by some, they possess artistic sensitivity few composers could hope to achieve. The Eleven Chorale Preludes, his most important contribution to organ literature, were composed in the last year of his life. Religiously based, they are unique in their beautiful reflection of the original hymn texts.