Musicians & Composers · 19th Century
Johannes Brahms’s Last Words
“Strange, I don't feel any pain. That's strange.”— Johannes Brahms, April 3, 1897
Who Was Johannes Brahms?
Johannes Brahms was a German composer who is considered one of the greatest of the Romantic era. His four symphonies and piano concertos are pillars of the classical repertoire.
The Final Moments
Brahms died in Vienna from liver cancer. Lemonade was his last drink. He expressed wonder at the absence of pain as he died.
Are These Words Verified?
Reported by attendants and appearing in early biographies, though not from a firsthand written account. The German version "Ach, das schmeckt schön" (variations exist) is widely cited.
Sources
- biography Max Kalbeck biography
- biography Jan Swafford 'Johannes Brahms: A Biography'
Legacy
Brahms's four symphonies, the German Requiem, and his piano works are among the most-performed in classical music.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Johannes Brahms’s last words?
“Strange, I don't feel any pain. That's strange.”
How did Johannes Brahms die?
Johannes Brahms died on April 3, 1897 at the age of 63. Cause of death: Liver cancer.
Were Johannes Brahms’s last words documented?
Reported by attendants and appearing in early biographies, though not from a firsthand written account. The German version "Ach, das schmeckt schön" (variations exist) is widely cited.