Robert Schumann, the composer, began composing for orchestra in 1827, the year of Beethoven's death.
Notable Performances
The premiere of Schumann's Symphony No.1 on March 31, 1841, was conducted by his close friend Felix Mendelssohn and was warmly received.
Performer Biography
Philippe Herreweghe, the conductor, founded Collegium Vocale Gent in 1970 and the Parisian ensemble La Chapelle royale in 1977.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Schumann's Third Symphony, the 'Rhenish', has a programmatic slant, evoking a specific atmosphere rather than telling a concrete story like Berlioz's Symphonie fantastique.
Composition History
Schumann's early reputation was built on his piano music and songs, which he explored exhaustively before venturing into symphonic repertoire.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Schumann, like Brahms, preferred to learn his craft through genres considered 'lesser' before tackling the symphony and instrumental chamber music, which Beethoven had perfected.
Composition History
Schumann composed his First Symphony in a surge of optimism in 1841, shortly after marrying Clara Wieck despite her father's protests.
