Robert Schumann: Symphonic Studies, Fantasie Op. 17 & Faschingsschwank aus Wien

Featuring

Sviatoslav Richter
Robert Schumann

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Composition History

Schumann began composing his Symphonic Studies in autumn 1834, initially as 'Variations pathétiques' on a theme by Baron von Fricken, the guardian of Ernestine von Fricken, whom Schumann thought he loved.

Interpretation

Richter's interpretation of Schumann's music showed a predilection for long-neglected works, such as the Nachtstücke, Op.23, and the six Bilder aus Osten for piano duet.

Composition History

Schumann's Fantasy in C major, Op.17, composed in 1836, was a work of pure passion dedicated to Clara Wieck, whom he had realized he loved, despite her father's opposition.

Composer's Artistic Vision

The Fantasy in C major, Op.17, was originally conceived by Schumann as three poems titled 'Ruins, Triumphal Arches and Starry Crowns,' and was intended as a contribution to a monument for Beethoven.

Composition History

The final variation (XII) of the Symphonic Studies incorporates a theme from Marschner's opera 'Der Templer und die Jüdin' ('Du stolzes England, freue dich') as a tribute to his English friend, William Sterndale Bennett.

Compositional Technique

The Fantasy in C major, Op.17, treats tonality unusually; its declared key of C major does not fully assert itself until the final bars of the first movement, following dissonant chords that create a 'Tristanesque mood'.

Performer Biography

Svjatoslav Richter, the pianist on this album, primarily performed Schumann's works between 1955 and 1971, a period that also included his Beethoven and Schubert performances.