With her Variations de Concert (1837), Clara Schumann created one of the most formidable virtuoso works of her generation. Composed at age eighteen and premiered in Vienna, the piece rivals the bravura fantasies of Liszt and Thalberg in scope and technical challenge. Based on a cavatina from Bellini’s Il pirata, the work unfolds in a dramatic arc: from a solemn introduction and lyrical theme to four increasingly complex variations and a fiery finale. A striking Adagio quasi fantasia at the centre provides expressive contrast with its sweeping arpeggios and operatic tone.
Dedicated to Adolf von Henselt, the work speaks to Clara’s engagement with the concert tradition and her command of large forms. Each variation poses its own pianistic demands—leaps, double notes, hand crossings—yet all are anchored in expressive intent. This Urtext edition brings to light a work of extraordinary ambition, and a testament to the technical and creative powers of a young composer determined to claim her place on the European stage.
Quick Overview
- Composer: Clara Schumann (1819–1896)
- Edition: Urtext (FE013)
- Pages: 23 (18 + V) pages.
- Difficulty: Level 10 / 10
- Editor: Martijn Vromans
- Paper: A4, 120 gsm cream (Clairefontaine)
- Binding: Black steel wire binding
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