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This week at 1PM on Classic 107, we're shining a well-deserved spotlight on an underrated gem of the Romantic era: Austrian composer Heinrich von Herzogenberg (1843–1900). We're celebrating the occasion of his birthday—Tuesday, June 10—with a full week of his masterful chamber music, performed by world-class ensembles. It’s your chance to get to know a composer whose works, while often overshadowed by Brahms, are brimming with originality, craftsmanship, and emotional depth.
Here’s a preview of what’s in store each afternoon this week:
Monday, June 9 – Piano Quintet in C Major, Op. 17
Performed by the Minguet Quartet with pianist Oliver Triendl
Written in 1876, this four-movement quintet is a tour de force of Romantic chamber music. From the regal opening movement to the joyous finale, the work showcases Herzogenberg’s gift for melody, instrumental colour, and contrapuntal texture. As Maurice Hinson notes, it’s “masterly written” and “intellectually interesting”—well worth the listen.
Tuesday, June 10 – Piano Trio No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 24
Performed by the The ATOS Trio
This trio—composed in the same period as the Quintet—is moody, dramatic, and bursting with contrast. From a brooding cello theme to a lively folk-inspired variation set, syncopated scherzo, and a turbulent yet tuneful finale, it’s a work of depth and delight. As a birthday tribute, it doesn’t get better than this.
Wednesday, June 11 – String Quintet in C Minor, Op. 77
Performed by the Minguet Quartet with violist Peter Langgartner
Dating from 1892, this later work is both emotionally rich and structurally refined. The opening movement brims with stormy passion, followed by lyrical variations, ghostly scherzos, and a spirited folk-tinged finale. Herzogenberg’s use of tone colour is especially striking here, with the extra viola adding depth and texture.
Thursday, June 12 – Piano Trio No. 2 in D Minor, Op. 36
Performed by the The ATOS Trio
Composed in 1882, this trio offers both emotional weight and lyrical grace. A melancholic first movement gives way to a tender and romantic Andante. The pizzicato scherzo is eerie yet playful, while the Brahmsian finale carries listeners to a triumphant close. Another under-the-radar masterpiece you won’t want to miss.
Friday, June 13 – String Quartet in D Minor, Op. 18
Performed by the Minguet Quartet
One of Herzogenberg’s earlier quartets and part of a set he dedicated to Brahms, this piece blends heartfelt lyricism with driving energy. With elegant craftsmanship and expressive range, it’s easy to hear why Wilhelm Altmann called his chamber music “unquestionably first rate.”
Who Was Heinrich von Herzogenberg?
Born in Graz, Austria, in 1843, Herzogenberg studied in Vienna and later aligned himself with the conservative camp of composers championed by Brahms. While some critics dismissed him as a mere imitator, others—including Brahms himself, eventually—acknowledged his talents. In fact, toward the end of his life, Brahms declared, “Herzogenberg is able to do more than any of the others.”
Herzogenberg’s chamber music stands out for its refined structure, rich textures, and a lyrical yet cerebral style that rewards repeated listening. He may have drawn inspiration from Brahms, but his voice is distinct, balanced, and emotionally sincere.
Don’t Miss a Note
Whether you're a chamber music connoisseur or curious to discover something new, this is the perfect entry point into the world of Heinrich von Herzogenberg. Tune in every day this week at 1PM to hear these rare and rewarding works brought to life by top-notch performers.