These Sonatas of Franz Schubert (1797-1828) are 2 of the 3 he composed in the months of his life. They appear regularly on concert programs and recordings and cry out with rare emotional depth. Each sonata contains a network of inner harmonic and melodic connections bringing together its mvmts. The sonatas convey melancholy (in the slow mvmvts) and joy, wistful humor, power, drama and sweetness. Johannes Brahms (1833-1897) greatly admired these sonatas, published 10 years after Schubert’s death. Brahms’ Ops. 116-119, written in 1891-1893, are short, introspective pieces encapsulating his mastery of harmony, counterpoint, melodic variation, rhythmic complexities and relationships between main themes and accompanying figures. Their moods range from melancholic, through lyrical to defiant. Op. 116 No. 4 is sensual, Nos. 3 and 7 passionate. Op. 117 No. 1 is a lullaby. Op. 118 No. 2 is thought by some to be a love song to Clara Schumann (Robert Schumann’s widow), whom Brahms loved throughout his life, while No. 6 breathes pathos. Op. 119 No. 1 is melancholy, No. 3 light and lively, No. 4 defiant and grand.