Robert Schumann | Introduction to his famous and representative works
Composer Robert Schumann, regarded as a romantic successor to Beethoven and Schubert, left works across a wide range of genres, from symphonies to choral music.
His output has so far been particularly noted for piano pieces and lieder.
Skillfully blending both Classical and Romantic styles, he produced many lyrical, romantic works unlike those of any other composer.
Here, we’ve picked out some of Schumann’s masterpieces and signature pieces.
Be sure to listen to Schumann’s works, which left a profound influence on later composers.
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Robert Schumann | Introducing Famous and Representative Works (71–80)
Requiem in D-flat major, Op. 148Robert Schumann
Requiem, which translates as “rest,” is a piece performed at memorial masses in the Roman Catholic Church.
The Requiem composed by Robert Schumann—who was raised in a family of Protestant pastors—is not intended for formal liturgical use; Schumann himself said he was “writing it for myself.” In fact, it became his final major work, and its distinctly Schumann-esque poetic, melancholic phrases lead the listener into a world that is painful yet beautiful.
Album for the Young, Op. 68: No. 8 “The Brave Knight”Robert Schumann
Robert Schumann, a composer who epitomizes German Romanticism, may seem daunting—especially his piano pieces.
However, there are certainly works that are well-suited for recitals.
Known in Japanese as both “The Boisterous Knight” and “The Brave Knight,” this short piece follows a ternary (ABA) form, offering the drama of well-crafted musical development—such as modulation in the middle section—and a melody characteristic of the Romantic era.
Technically, it isn’t overly difficult, making it a very approachable choice.
Pay attention to the 6/8 meter and the continuous triplets, and aim for a powerful performance that doesn’t become too rough.
Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 54Robert Schumann
Piano Concerto in A minor, Op.
54 is composed by Schumann.
It is a piece that blends intensity with calm.
With Schumann’s characteristic, elegant melodies, it’s a marvelous concerto that could easily captivate your heart.
It has a distinctly different flavor from Tchaikovsky and other famous piano concertos.
Comparing them can be fun, too.
Please give it a listen.
Fantasiestücke, Op. 12: FlyingRobert Schumann
It is a highly popular piece by the German Romantic composer Robert Schumann, alongside No.
2 and the fifth piece, “In the Night,” from his Fantasiestücke.
Even those who aren’t classical music fans have likely heard it at some point.
Written in 6/8 time with a brisk tempo, it ranks on the higher end of intermediate difficulty.
With collections like this, listening through the pieces you don’t plan to play can help you grasp the overall intent of the set.
Try listening to the entire collection and let your imagination expand.
Fantasy Pieces: Flight, Op. 12 No. 2Robert Schumann
Robert Schumann’s masterpiece “Fantasiestücke, No.
2 ‘Aufschwung,’ Op.
12.” It’s often performed at piano recitals, so many of you may be familiar with it.
In terms of difficulty, it’s slightly harder than Chopin’s ‘Minute Waltz,’ making it a popular choice as a piece for intermediate players.
A key point in this work is the right hand from measure 17.
If you focus too much on clearly bringing out the top voice, the sound can become hard, so try to play with an awareness of the horizontal flow.
Dreaming (Träumerei) from Scenes from Childhood, Op. 15Robert Schumann
Robert Schumann, a leading composer of the German Romantic era in the 19th century.
Composed in 1838, the gem-like piano collection Scenes from Childhood looks back on childhood from an adult’s perspective.
Known as the seventh piece, this work captivates with its unforgettable melody and distinctive harmonies.
Its dreamy atmosphere beautifully conveys the innocence and fragility of childhood.
This 2-minute-59-second miniature, shining with Schumann’s poetic sensibility, remains a beloved masterpiece of piano music to this day.
It’s a perfect choice for those seeking soothing, gentle tones.
Three Sonatas for Children, Op. 118a-1 in G majorRobert Schumann
Schumann, who left behind many works with the word “child” in the title, is known as a composer who doted on his children.
The Three Sonatas for Children, Op.
118a-1 in G major, is said to have been written for his third daughter, Julie.
The piece’s gentle, warmly expressive melody seems to speak to the depth of his affection.
With its relaxed tempo and sparse notes, it is a work that even children may find easy to play with feeling.
