RAG MusicClassic
Lovely classics

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.

Robert Schumann | Introducing Masterpieces and Signature Works (21–30)

Requiem in D-flat majorRobert Schumann

Robert Schumann (1810-1856): “Requiem”, Op.148 (1852).
Requiem in D-flat majorRobert Schumann

This is Schumann’s Requiem.

It consists of nine movements and runs about 40 minutes in total.

From the very beginning it makes a powerful impact that keeps you drawn in for the entire 40 minutes.

Its expression of mourning for the dead is also superb, making it a truly moving work.

Arabesque in C major, Op. 18Robert Schumann

Schumann – Arabesque in C major, Op.18 – pianomaedaful
Arabesque in C major, Op. 18Robert Schumann

Robert Schumann’s great masterpiece, Arabesque in C major, Op.

18.

The term “arabesque” means “in the Arabic style,” and, literally, Arabian-sounding melodies appear in the piece.

Although the difficulty varies depending on hand size, you can perform it without issue if you, for example, support the voices with both hands.

There is a section where “ritardando” appears twice, but since it can be hard to grasp the feel from the score alone, try referring to performances by professional musicians.

Robert Schumann | Introducing Famous and Representative Works (31–40)

Konzertstück for Four Horns and OrchestraRobert Schumann

Composed in 1849, it is a work for four horns and orchestra, sometimes translated as “concert piece.” It demands an extremely wide range from the four horns and employs virtuoso techniques.

Because of its extreme difficulty, some have even suggested that Schumann may have disliked the horn.

Piano Sonata No. 2 in G minorRobert Schumann

Martha Argerich plays Robert Schumann – Piano Sonata No. 2 in G Minor, Op. 22
Piano Sonata No. 2 in G minorRobert Schumann

A piano sonata in four movements.

Although it is titled No.

2, No.

3 was actually composed earlier, and this one received its name because it was the last to reach its final form; in fact, it is the piano sonata that was composed most recently.

Carnival Jest from Vienna, Op. 26 No. 1 “Allegro”Robert Schumann

Schumann / Carnival Jest from Vienna, 1st movement: Allegro / Sachiko Suga
Carnival Jest from Vienna, Op. 26 No. 1 “Allegro”Robert Schumann

Carnival Jest from Vienna, Op.

26 is a solo piano work composed in Vienna in 1839 by Robert Schumann, a leading composer of the German Romantic movement in the 19th century.

Consisting of five movements, the first piece, Allegro, captivates with its innovative rhythms and unexpected melodies.

Schumann vividly portrays the bustle and splendor of the Viennese carnival through his uniquely poetic expression.

This piece tests both technique and expressive range, making it a guaranteed showstopper at recitals.

It’s a perfect choice for those who want to evoke the carnival atmosphere through the piano’s timbre.

TraumereiRobert Schumann

Mischa Elman plays Traumerei by Schumann
TraumereiRobert Schumann

Originally a piano piece, it’s also widely used in many places in versions performed on the violin.

It’s a beautifully melancholic piece that makes you want to listen to it in a quiet setting.

Schumann also wrote piano pieces for children’s study, such as the “for children” series, so be sure to check those out as well.

Album for ChildrenRobert Schumann

Schumann: Album für die Jugend Op.68 (21-26)
Album for ChildrenRobert Schumann

A collection of 43 short piano pieces.

Of these, Nos.

1–7, which constitute Part I, were composed as a birthday gift for Schumann’s eldest daughter Marie, who was seven years old at the time.

Unlike Scenes from Childhood, which was written for adults, this work was composed for children to play.