Schumann, R.: Gedichte Der Konigin Maria Stuart / Liederkreis / Frauenliebe Und -Leben (Connolly, Asti) (Songs of Love and Loss)
10/28/2008, 27 Tracks, 1:05:58
Featuring
Dame Sarah Connolly
Eugene Asti
Robert Schumann
Did you know?
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Critical Reception
Despite its popularity, the 'Frauenliebe und -leben' cycle has often been criticized for its 'sentimental' tone, with some calling the poems chauvinistic.
Recording & Production
This Chandos recording utilizes 24-bit technology, offering a dynamic range up to 48 dB greater and 256 times the resolution of standard 16-bit recordings.
Composition History
Schumann's 'Gedichte der Königin Maria Stuart' (Poems of Mary, Queen of Scots), Op. 135, were his last Lieder, composed in December 1852 during a period of deep depression.
Compositional Technique
In 'Mondnacht' from Liederkreis, Schumann used a motif of descending fifths in the piano's left hand, which spells 'EHE' (Ehe = marriage) in German notation, as a hidden message for Clara.
Performer Biography
Mezzo-soprano Sarah Connolly, a Fellow of the Royal College of Music, has performed major operatic roles at prestigious venues like La Scala, The Metropolitan Opera, and Glyndebourne Festival.
Composer Biography
Robert Schumann composed 138 songs in 1840, the year of his marriage to Clara Wieck, many of which are considered masterpieces.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Schumann believed that a requiem is written for oneself, a sentiment that may have had symbolic importance given his later attempt to drown himself in the Rhine.
