Schumann Anniversary!
This is a 5-CD collection in commemoration of the birth of Robert Schumann in 1810.
These 5 CD’s provide a wonderful opportunity to enjoy and to study Robert Schumann’s chamber music. There are no orchestral works included. We hear the three string quartets piano quartet, piano quintet, all the solo piano works, the violin sonata, and the shorter piano pieces such as the Fantasiestücke Op.73.
Many years ago, as a member of a Brooklyn orchestra, I had the opportunity to play and perform Schumann’s Symphony #2. I still recall that time in my life each and every time I hear a recording or a live concert of that work. While this masterpiece is not included in this commemorative collection, I do realize that the experience of studying and performing Schumann’s music allowed me to enjoy and appreciate this composer so much.
Here is a beautiful performance of the second movement of the Schumann Piano Quintet, with Helene Grimaud, Piano. Playing Violins are: Renaud Capuçon and Sayaka Shoji; Viola: Lars Anders Tomter; and Cello played by Mischa Maisky. Just listen to that lyrical beauty which was Schumann’s hallmark. Yet, in this movement, we also have the sadness, pathos, passion, and darkness which filled so much of this composer’s life: