Schumann, Clara (née Wieck) (1819-1896)
Caprices en Forme de Valses
SKU:FE008-EN
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Description
These caprices were written by Clara Schumann when she was 12 years old. Every caprice is in 3/4 time, yet they are not waltzes in the traditional, dance-oriented manner. The danceable quality seems almost coincidental in a broader narrative arrangement: a finished cycle of 9 individual caprices, unified stylistically by the three-quarter measure. From this work forward, the signature pastel hues of Clara Schumann are present.
The first Caprice, a sparkling waltz characterized by inviting playfulness and vibrancy, serves as the opening. The cyclical composition further contains a rich variety of subtle emotions. For a 12-year-old, the introspective depth is notable, in addition to the somewhat mysterious character of the slower sections. Playful vivacity and reflection alternate with each other.
Product Details
Product Details
Composer: Clara Schumann née Wieck
Title of the Publication: Caprices en Forme de Valses
Opus: 2
Composition Year: 1831
Edition Type: Urtext
Edition Number: FE008
Editor: Martijn Vromans
Languages of the Text: English, German, French, and Spanish
Paper: A4 Clairefontaine 120 gsm cream paper
Binding: Black steel wire binding
Pages/Format: Total 24 pages (1 full colour portrait, 3 pages introduction, 1 page critical commentary, 17 pages music)
Weight: 125 g
Difficulty Level: 6–7/10
About the Music
About the Music
Beyond Childhood Genius: Clara Schumann’s Caprices en Forme de Valses, Opus 2, are the expression of a child prodigy, but offer an unexpectedly striking musical experience. Written when she was just 11 years old, the Caprices serve as a splendid illustration of her remarkable skill and innovative spirit.
Reinventing the Waltz: This piece lifts the conventional, dance-oriented waltz to a new height, preceding Chopin’s similar advancements. It embodies a work of significant musical depth. Combining two classical forms, the caprice and the waltz, produces a novel and distinctive unity. The outcome is a suite of nine compositions, which, notwithstanding their distinct allure, collectively constitute a cohesive and identifiable musical story.
Narrative Depth: Schumann employs musical motifs to create narrative depth and a distinctive atmosphere. Every work carries its own atmosphere and expression, varying from energetic, to frolicsome and nimble, to profound and reflective. This creates a richly variegated palette of emotions and images. It is particularly notable that the work begins in a highly lively and energetic fashion, yet closes with introspection.
About the Composer
About the Composer
Even in the 19th century, a period brimming with some of the greatest pianists to ever grace the stage, Clara Schumann stands uniquely tall as perhaps the foremost among them. Often merely cast as the muse of her husband, Robert Schumann, she delivered unparalleled achievements, not just as a trailblazing pianist but also as a composer. From the moment she published her Opus 2 at the very early age of 12, she began to leave behind a compositional legacy. These works, while early, are by no means immature: they are the creations of a fully-fledged composer, marked by a remarkable emotional richness and playful virtuosity.
Contents
Contents
- Portrait
- Introduction (English, German, French or Spanish)
- Caprices en Forme de Valses, Op. 2
- Critical Commentary (English, German, French or Spanish)
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