His repertoire particularly covered the works of Schubert, Schumann and Brahms.

The works of Brahms presented just as many challenges to listeners when they were new, Mr. Shapey argued.

Eventually he came to put emphasis on the major works of Bach, Beethoven, Brahms and Debussy.

Two years ago it was orchestral works of Brahms, followed last winter by Wagner operas in concert versions.

Instead, he returns as an infrequent and welcome guest, here conducting works of Schubert and Brahms.

Sunday's program began with two late works of Brahms, a composer Mr. Kirchner reveres.

Gui was particularly known for his conducting of the works of Brahms, of which he was said to be a leading conductor in Italy.

More successful are the grandest choral works of Beethoven and Brahms.

Bohm's specialty was music in a lighter vein, very different from the dark, brooding and introspective works of Brahms.

What orchestra doesn't play the works of Beethoven and Brahms?