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The elusive charms of Brahms

Claire Jackson's opinions on Brahms (Hero or Hype?; August) resonated with me. I studied his First Symphony for O-Level, and his Fourth for A-Level. Then at college, my piano teacher insisted I learn some Brahms pieces.

On saying that I didn't like Brahms, he replied, 'When you grow up, you will like him'. I am delighted that, at the age of 77, I have not yet 'grown up! However, reading your October tribute to the late Roger Norrington, of whom I was a great admirer, made me think. He conducted a series of the complete Beethoven symphonies on the TV with his period orchestra, which changed my attitude to those symphonies I do wonder whether my dislike of Brahms has stemmed from repeated listenings to his symphonies as a teenager - my records were by 1950s/60s orchestras, conducted by Otto Klemperer (and others), whose modern instruments, very slow tempos and with heavy vibrato I found stodgy and boring. Maybe if I'd heard Norrington conducting Brahms, I'd have changed my mind about his music! Nell Gregory, Dorset

Soothing Elgar

Your Rays of light feature (November) struck a chord, not least because I could identify with some of the contributors who mentioned having been through dark times in relation to their parents. I lost my own parents within three months of each other in early 2023, preceded by months of seemingly endless hospital admissions, worries over their day-to-day care and a major shift in our relationship as a result. It was a hellish time for all concerned. But music helps, and for me it is Elgar's Sospiri that provides the balm. It was played at my Dad's funeral and although it still hurts to hear it, it now also soothes. Where we would be without the gift of beautiful music, heaven knows. David Moore, via email The editor replies: We agree entirely! And further suggesitons of works readers turn to in troubled times are more than welcome...