The cornerstone of the Brahms collection is the 1st symphony that he composed. At first dark and somewhat moody, the ending of the symphony is an explosion of joy. Brahms seems to have worked on some of the themes from Beethoven's last symphony. His first piano concerto is equally as powerful. He was able to adhere to the classical forms of playing the piano and yet introduced an element of anger.

• First Symphony in C Minor    
• Piano Concerto No. 1    

Brahms's chamber music, which he wrote throughout his lifetime, was also some of the greatest frome the 19th century. The strings were probably his favorites (aside from the piano) because they gave him an intimate setting to express his emotions.

• Violin Concerto