Robert Schumann

Robert Schumann (1810-1856) was a leading German composer and critic of the Romantic era, living amidst the burgeoning artistic and intellectual movements of 19th-century Europe. His life was marked by both extraordinary creative output and tragic mental decline. He achieved early recognition as a brilliant pianist and critic, founding the influential "Neue Zeitschrift für Musik" to advocate for artistic innovation. His marriage to Clara Wieck, a renowned pianist, was a significant personal and professional partnership.

Schumann's musical development was influenced by the works of Beethoven, Schubert, and Bach. His own compositions, in turn, profoundly impacted composers like Brahms, who became a close friend and supporter of Clara after Robert's death.

His compositional style is characterised by its intense emotional expression, lyrical melodies, and innovative use of harmony and rhythm. He often explored literary and personal themes in his music, particularly in his lieder cycles and piano pieces, and his works frequently feature cyclical structures.

Major works include:

Piano: Carnaval, Kinderszenen, Kreisleriana, Fantasiestücke, Symphonic Etudes

Lieder (Songs): Liederkreis Op. 39, Dichterliebe, Frauenliebe und leben

Symphonies: Symphony No. 1 "Spring", Symphony No. 2, Symphony No. 3 "Rhenish", Symphony No. 4.

Chamber music: Piano Quintet in E-flat major, Piano Quartet in E-flat major

Orchestral: Piano concerto in A minor.