Portrait - Works by Johannes Brahms and Gustav Jenner

Released in 2001 by the Swiss label Pan Classics, this recording explores the late-Romantic chamber repertoire through a pairing of Johannes Brahms and his sole pupil, Gustav Jenner. The collection centers on the clarinet, featuring works such as Brahms' Clarinet Sonata in F minor and Jenner’s Clarinet Sonata in G major. This project was conceived to highlight the profound artistic lineage between the two composers, showcasing how Brahms influenced his protégé while maintaining the distinct, lyrical clarity of the mid-19th-century German tradition.

The album features performances by clarinetist Bernhard Röthlisberger and pianist Philip Smith. The interpretive approach reflects a commitment to the intimate, conversational nature of chamber music, aiming for a balance of technical precision and expressive warmth. Upon its release, the recording was noted by critics for its sensitive curation, providing a rare opportunity for listeners to compare the master’s late-period maturity with the dutiful yet individualistic voice of Jenner, who remained a devoted proponent of the Brahmsian aesthetic throughout his career.