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 Romantic composer considered one of the greatest of his era, known for his four symphonies and German Requiem.
The Final Moments
Died in Vienna from liver cancer.
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
His four symphonies and German Requiem are among the greatest works of 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.