1. Nicht schnell - Drei Romanzen, Op. 94 - Robert Schumann

During Schumann's lifetime, much political upheaval was experienced in his hometown of Dresden. Earlier in 1849, fighting had broken out in Dresden. Schumann, his wife, and eldest daughter were forced to flee their home after the republican army attempted to draft Schumann. They made their way to the countryside of Bad Kreischa, just outside of Dresden, where Schumann continued to write. By the end of the year, he was able to return to Dresden. This chaos he and his family experienced can be heard through his music.

These romances were written on three separate days during December 1849 and were presented to his wife, Clara, on Christmas. Schumann called them "his hundredth opusculum." Three days later, Clara held a private performance at the Royal Chapel in Dresden, the soloist being a violin. In late 1850, the piece was rehearsed with an oboist, and by 1851 a publication was available for piano and violin, oboe, or clarinet. Being very lyrical in nature, these pieces highlight the solo instrument's melodic and color qualities rather than technical expertise. All three start very simply, with similar tempos and style. However, it is the haunting melodies that Schumann wrote that create lovely musical variety for each movement.

Category:

Music

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• clarinet
• schumann
• three
• romances