Clara Schumann's career was considerably limited after marriage due to having numerous children, though she continued to compose and perform.
Composition History
Many of Robert Schumann's chamber works from 1849, including those on this album, were written quickly and with a certain 'lack of instrumental definition,' allowing for performance on various instruments.
Composer Biography
Clara Schumann, a precocious and exceptional pianist, began giving recitals at age ten and toured throughout Europe.
Composer Biography
Clara Schumann was admired by Chopin, Liszt, and Mendelssohn as a performer, and revered by Brahms.
Compositional Technique
Robert Schumann, despite respecting Beethoven's formal tradition, used the title 'Fantasiestücke' for his Op. 73 to allow for greater freedom and spontaneity than a sonata.
Composition History
Robert Schumann's Adagio and Allegro, Op. 70, was originally conceived for horn to help him familiarize himself with the new three-piston horn, but he foresaw versions for other instruments.
Cultural Impact
Pablo Casals, a renowned cellist, 'appropriated' Robert Schumann's Adagio and Allegro, Op. 70, for the cello, making that version the most heard and celebrated.
