Brahms had been quick to criticise his first piano trio, Op. 8, the work of a 20-year-old better known as a piano virtuoso. Some 25 years later, however, upon completion of his second, Op. 87, the by now established composer could enthuse to his publisher, Simrock: "You have not yet had such a beautiful trio from me and very likely have not published its equal in the last ten years!!!"

This new edition is based on Simrock's first edition, taking into account differing readings in its score and parts, and draws on evidence from Brahms' autograph manuscript; Christopher's introduction details the composition process and revisions, the first performances and publications, and their reception. The edition also includes a Critical Commentary and facsimiles of the autograph score, along with a reproduction of the remaining fragment of a manuscript cello part apparently rescued from Brahms' waste-paper basket!