By Barry Lenson
Clara Schumann, as you almost certainly know, was the wife of the composer Robert Schumann, who lived from 1810 until 1856. You probably also know that Clara was one of the finest pianists of her era. But you might not know that she was an extraordinary composer too.
I never completely grasped that until I began to listen to more and more of her music here on Classical Archives. And as I listen, I can only wonder how I failed to comprehend her importance as a composer. It is probably because as a woman, she never has received the recognition she deserves. Her Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 7 is a masterwork that stands alongside concerti by her husband, Chopin, and Mendelssohn. Her chamber works, including the Piano Trio in G minor, are of a very high level. And then we come to her Lieder, which are a revelation and stand alongside those that her husband wrote, not to mention those of Brahms, Wolf and Mahler.
I would encourage you to spend some time listening to her songs. One that stands out is “Liebst du um Schönheit” Op.12, No.4, a setting of a poem by Friedrich Rückert. Yes, you probably know this poem because it was set to music by Gustav Mahler too. People love Mahler’s setting. But I would offer my opinion that Clara’s version could be even more tender and lovely.
Clara Schumann was much, much more than Robert Schumann’s wife. Let’s learn more.
About Clara Schumann
Clara Josephine Schumann (née Wieck) was born on September 13, 1819, in Leipzig. Clara’s musical education began at an early age, under the rigorous tutelage of her father, Friedrich Wieck, a renowned piano teacher. Clara’s parents divorced when she was just five years old, but she remained with her father, who meticulously planned her musical education. By the age of nine, she was performing publicly, and her immense talent quickly gained recognition.
Her early career was marked by extensive concert tours across Europe. By the age of eleven, she had already performed to great acclaim in Paris and Vienna.
Marriage to Robert Schumann
In 1840, Clara married the composer Robert Schumann, despite her father’s strong objections. Their marriage was a partnership of mutual respect and artistic collaboration. She premiered many of his works and was instrumental in promoting his music. The couple had eight children, and Clara somehow balanced her roles as a mother, performer, and composer.
Clara’s life was not without its challenges. Robert’s mental health deteriorated, leading to his eventual confinement in an asylum, where he died in 1856. Despite these hardships, Clara continued to perform and compose. She maintained a close professional and personal relationship with Johannes Brahms, who was a great support to her during these grim times. Many people now believe that Brahms was in love with her, and that could be true.
Later Years and Legacy
In her later years, Clara became a highly respected piano teacher in Frankfurt, where she taught Carl Friedberg, Fanny Davies and other pianists who went on to have important careers as performers and teachers. She also edited and published Robert Schumann’s works, helping to ensure that his legacy endured.
Clara Schumann passed away on May 20, 1896, in Frankfurt. She was buried beside her husband in Bonn. Her contributions to music were recognized posthumously, and her works have gained renewed appreciation in recent years.
Compositions by Clara Schumann on Classical Archives*
- Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 7 – This concerto, composed when Clara was just sixteen, displays her virtuosic piano skills and innovative orchestration.
- 4 Pièces Caractéristiques, Op. 5 – A set of character pieces for solo piano, requiring expressive range and technical command. (They sound a lot like the piano works of Robert Schumann, right?)
- 3 Romances for Piano, Op. 11 – These pieces are notable for their ravishingly beautiful melodies.
- Piano Trio in G minor, Op. 17 – Considered one of her masterpieces, this trio has become a staple in the chamber music repertoire.
- Variations on a Theme by Robert Schumann, Op. 20 – A set of variations for piano that demonstrate her deep emotional connection to her husband’s music.
- 3 Romances for Violin and Piano, Op.22 – These pieces are as beautiful as the Brahms violin sonatas, don’t you agree?
And Don’t Miss All Her Ravishing Songs
Visit Clara Schumann’s composers page on Classical Archives and click on both the Lieder and Vocal Works tabs. Dozens of extraordinary songs await your discovery.
* Please note that to listen, you must be a member of Classical Archives. If you have not yet done so, we invite you to join today. Free 14-day trial memberships are available.
