Variations on a Theme of Haydn in B flat & Symphony No. 1 in C minor

There is no doubt about it, great things were expected of Johannes Brahms, as is clear in these sentences penned by Robert Schumann in 1855. Schumann had already showered him with praise in his article “Neue Bahnen”, and now expected Brahms to finally alter course in the direction of the larger-sized works, such as the symphony: it was essential for the young composer to once and for all outdo the “giant” Beethoven in this field. Brahms was under double pressure: on the one hand, his circle of friends led by Schumann, as well as the music world, were anxiously awaiting his first symphony; on the other, he was struggling with himself and with his relentless self-criticism. Was he truly already up to the challenge?