Robert Schumann, the composer, suffered from intense mood swings and mental health problems throughout his life, compounded by a hedonistic lifestyle and heavy drinking.
Recording & Production
This album was conceived in early 2020, during a period of global isolation, and the performer Nino Gvetadze found solace in playing Robert Schumann's music during this time.
Composition History
Much of Schumann's music, particularly his piano works, was composed with Clara Wieck, his future wife and an outstanding pianist and composer, in mind.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Schumann strongly identified with Johannes Kreisler, a character from E.T.A. Hoffmann's literary works, who also veered between extremities of mood from ecstasy to despair.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Schumann created the Davidsbund, a fictional group of friends including Florestan and Eusebius, to represent different aspects of his own nature in his journal.
Composer Biography
Schumann's hopes of becoming a virtuoso pianist were dashed when he developed a disability in his right hand.
