The Kreisleriana op. 16 was originally intended to be dedicated to Clara Wieck, Schumann's fiancée, but the dedication was removed to avoid provoking her father.
Composer Biography
Schumann considered becoming either a musician or a writer, having written poems, dramas, and novels in his youth.
Composition History
Schumann initially titled his Nachtstücke op. 23 as 'Leichenphantasie' (funereal fantasy) due to a premonition of his brother's death, but changed it to 'Nachtstücke' at Clara Wieck's suggestion.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Robert Schumann, the composer, was deeply influenced by literature, often choosing titles for his instrumental music based on literary inspirations.
Composer Biography
Schumann's Fantasiestücke op. 12 were dedicated to Robena Ann(e) Laidlaw, a young British pianist whom he befriended during a period of separation from Clara Wieck.
Composition History
The titles for Schumann's compositions, including the works on this album, were typically chosen after the music was already composed.
Recording & Production
This album is part of Florian Uhlig's 15-CD project to create the first truly complete recording of Robert Schumann's solo piano works.
