Johannes Brahms (1833-1897) was a German composer in the middle of the

Romantic Period, as well as a leading figure of contemporary Viennese music. His

composition style is based on a rigorous classical framework, combined with new

personal ideas and innovation, and eventually established a unique style of musical

elements such as melody, harmony and rhythm.

Brahms wrote many great instrumental works during his life, including two cello

sonatas Op. 38 and Op. 99.

This thesis will take "Brahms cello sonata in e minor, Op. 38” as the research topic,

By examining the composer’s life and musical characteristics with in-depth research,

analysis and interpretation, the author aims to further understand the inner emotions

that Brahms wanted to express. The thesis is divided into five chapters. The first

chapter is the introduction which reveals the motives, the goals and methods used in

this research; the second chapter depicts Brahms’ life and creative characteristics; the

third chapter contains the analysis of the Sonata; the fourth chapter concentrates on

the interpretation of performance; the fifth chapter summarizes the author’s research,

with the references being provided.