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Clara Schumann

Born: 13th September 1819, Leipzig, Germany

Died: 20th May 1896, Frankfurt, Germany

Nationality: German

Clara Josephine Schumann was a German pianist, composer, and piano teacher. Regarded as one of the most distinguished pianists of the Romantic era, she exerted her influence over a 61-year concert career, changing the format and repertoire of the piano recital from displays of virtuosity to programs of serious works. She also composed solo piano pieces, a piano concerto (her Op. 7), chamber music, choral pieces, and songs.

She grew up in Leipzig, where her father, Friedrich Wieck, was a pianist and teacher, and her mother, Mariane, was a pianist, singer, and piano teacher.

Further Reading: Schumann, Clara

Recording of the Week, Benjamin Grosvenor plays music by the Schumanns and Brahms

The British pianist is on typically eloquent, empathetic form in a programme which includes Robert's Kreisleriana and Blumenstück, Clara's variations on a theme from his Bunte Blätter, and their friend Brahms's autumnal Intermezzi Op. 117.

Interview, Beatrice Rana on Clara & Robert Schumann

In the wake of her recording of the Schumanns' piano concertos with the Chamber Orchestra of Europe and Yannick Nézet-Séguin, the Italian pianist reflects on the 'powerful, open and beautiful' relationship between the couple.

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