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Johannes Brahms' "21 Hungarian Dances" is a collection of lively and colorful orchestral pieces that draw inspiration from Hungarian folk music. Here are some interesting facts about this musical work:

1. Origins of Inspiration: Brahms was introduced to Hungarian folk music by his friend and mentor, the violinist Eduard Reményi. The melodies and rhythms of Hungarian folk music greatly influenced Brahms, and he decided to incorporate these elements into his compositions.

2. Numbering and WoO: The "21 Hungarian Dances" are often referred to by their WoO (Without Opus) number, WoO 1. This means that Brahms did not assign an official opus number to this collection, which is somewhat unusual for a composer of his stature.

3. Scoring: Originally, Brahms composed these dances for piano four hands, which means that they were intended to be played by two people on one piano. Later, Brahms arranged some of them for orchestra, which is the version you mentioned.

4. Not All by Brahms: While Brahms composed some of the Hungarian Dances entirely from scratch, others are based on existing Hungarian folk tunes. He took these folk melodies and arranged them in his own unique way.

5. Popular Success: The Hungarian Dances became immensely popular during Brahms' lifetime. They were a commercial success and contributed to his fame as a composer. Many of them were published individually and performed widely.

6. Variety and Character: Each of the Hungarian Dances has its own distinctive character, ranging from joyful and exuberant to melancholic and introspective. This variety showcases Brahms' skill in capturing different moods and emotions in his music.

7. Influence on Other Composers: Brahms' Hungarian Dances had a significant influence on other composers, and their Hungarian-style music became a trend in the 19th century. Many composers were inspired to incorporate elements of Hungarian folk music into their own works.

8. Dance Styles: The dances in this collection include various traditional Hungarian dance forms, such as czárdás, verbunkos, and friss. Brahms adapted these dance forms to create his own unique compositions.

9. Concert Arrangements: Brahms created several concert arrangements of the Hungarian Dances, which are more elaborate and suitable for orchestral performances. These arrangements added to the enduring popularity of the work.

10. Legacy: Brahms' Hungarian Dances remain a beloved part of classical music repertoire and are frequently performed by orchestras and pianists around the world. They continue to captivate audiences with their vibrant and spirited melodies.

These facts highlight the rich history and significance of Johannes Brahms' "21 Hungarian Dances," showcasing the composer's talent for blending classical and folk elements into a delightful musical collection.