Schumann: Scenes for Piano

Featuring

Matthias Kirschnereit
Robert Schumann

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Composition History

Schumann's 'Papillons' (Butterflies) Op. 2, a cycle of twelve miniatures, was inspired by the penultimate chapter of Jean Paul's novel 'Flegeljahre'.

Compositional Technique

Schumann stated that he "learnt more counterpoint from Jean Paul than from his music teacher," indicating the literary influence on his compositional style.

Critical Reception

The popular metronome markings for Schumann's 'Kinderszenen' are not the composer's own, leading to tempos that are often too fast in quick movements and too slow in slow movements.

Recording & Production

This recording by Matthias Kirschnereit features the world premiere recording of Schumann's rediscovered piece 'Ahnung', 166 years after its creation.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Robert Schumann used the piano to express and process personal experiences, creating a world of suggestions and disguises in his compositions.

Composer Biography

Schumann's father ran a publishing house in Zwickau, and the young Robert was extremely well-read, particularly influenced by the fanciful novels of German writer Jean Paul.

Composition History

Schumann's 'Kinderszenen' (Scenes from Childhood) Op. 15, though often considered easy pieces, were not intended for children and were composed in 1838.