Schumann's ambitions as a pianist ended due to a weakness in two fingers of his right hand, possibly caused by mercury poisoning after attempting to cure syphilis.
Composer Biography
Robert Schumann's father, August Schumann, was a bookseller, writer, and publisher, from whom Robert may have inherited his interest in literature and a tendency towards nervous instability.
Composition History
Schumann composed four symphonies and the 'Symphonette' (Overture, Scherzo and Finale) in the twelve years following his marriage, after previously abandoning earlier attempts at the form.
Composer Biography
Schumann married Clara Wieck, a renowned pianist and daughter of his piano teacher Friedrich Wieck, in 1840, despite her father's strong opposition.
Composer Biography
Schumann's wife, Clara, achieved greater fame as a pianist, which overshadowed his own achievements and contributed to his periods of depression.
Composer Biography
Schumann's final years were marked by nervous illness, an attempted suicide in 1854 by throwing himself into the Rhine, and his death in a private asylum in 1856.
