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Johannes Brahms' "21 Hungarian Dances" for piano, WoO 1, is a collection of lively and captivating compositions that are infused with Hungarian folk melodies and rhythms. Here are some interesting facts about this set of dances:

1. Folk Inspiration: Brahms drew inspiration from traditional Hungarian folk music for these dances. He didn't actually collect the melodies himself from Hungary, but he was influenced by the popular folk tunes of the time.

2. Transcriptions: The original "21 Hungarian Dances" were written for piano, four hands (two players at one piano), which means that the pieces were meant to be played collaboratively by two pianists. However, Brahms later orchestrated some of these dances, allowing them to be performed by a full orchestra.

3. Wide Appeal: The Hungarian Dances quickly became immensely popular, not only for their musical appeal but also due to their accessibility and catchy melodies. They brought Brahms international recognition and contributed significantly to his popularity as a composer.

4. Separate Arrangements: In addition to the original piano duet versions and the orchestrated versions, Brahms himself arranged a selection of these dances for solo piano, making the pieces accessible to a wider range of pianists.

5. Unauthorized Arrangements: The success of the Hungarian Dances led to a number of unauthorized arrangements and adaptations by other musicians, which Brahms found frustrating. He even published a statement in a newspaper to clarify which versions were authorized.

6. Quirky Humor: The dances display Brahms' playful and witty side. Some of the dances incorporate humorous elements and quirky rhythms, showcasing Brahms' ability to infuse serious musical composition with light-hearted moments.

7. Range of Emotions: While many of the dances are lively and exuberant, others explore a wide range of emotions, from melancholy to passionate. This emotional variety adds depth to the collection and showcases Brahms' mastery of musical expression.

8. Cultural Fusion: Brahms' Hungarian Dances represent a fusion of traditional Hungarian elements with his own Romantic style. He managed to capture the essence of Hungarian folk music while imbuing the dances with his own artistic voice.

9. Arrangement Order: The original order of the dances was altered several times by various publishers. Brahms' original intentions regarding the sequence of the dances are not entirely clear, leading to different arrangements in terms of order.

10. Legacy: The Hungarian Dances remain among Brahms' most recognizable and beloved compositions. They continue to be performed widely in various arrangements, from piano duets to orchestral versions, and are cherished by musicians and audiences alike.

Brahms' "21 Hungarian Dances" are a testament to his ability to blend cultural influences, showcase his musical skill, and create music that resonates with people across different times and places.