Schumann, Clara (née Wieck) (1819 – 1896)
Romance Variée
SKU:FD009
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Description
Published when she was just fourteen, Clara Schumann’s Romance Variée marks a turning point in her development as a composer. Written on her own theme—a lyrical miniature of remarkable charm—the work unfolds through a series of variations that balance brilliance with emotional nuance. The initial theme, marked Romance, leads directly into a cadenza, followed by variations that explore a wide range of pianistic textures and characters: lively figuration, solemn lyricism, rhythmic wit, and grand virtuosity.
Beyond its musical merits, the piece holds biographical significance. Clara dedicated it to Robert Schumann, who was so taken with the theme that he reworked it in his own Impromptus, Op. 5. Later, Clara echoed the same melody in her Variations on a Theme by Robert Schumann, Op. 20—a testament to the musical dialogue that shaped their partnership. In measure 125, Clara Schumann introduces a descending motif of five notes: G, F, E, D, C. Robert Schumann called this the Clara motif and used it in numerous compositions, including in every movement of his Piano Sonata in F, Opus 14, which even opens with the motif.
Quick Overview
- Composer: Clara Schumann (1819–1896)
- Edition: Urtext (FE009)
- Pages: 13 (10 + III) pages.
- Difficulty: Level 8 / 10
- Editor: Martijn Vromans
About the Composer
About the Composer
Clara Schumann (1819–1896) was a pioneering German pianist and composer who left a profound mark on 19th-century musical life. Her works combine remarkable virtuosity with deep emotional insight. She explored the full sonic potential of the piano and introduced innovative approaches to pianistic technique. Many of her pieces carry an undertone of melancholy, subtly woven into a style of refined expressiveness.
Contents
Contents
- Introduction
- Romance Variée, Op. 3
- Critical Commentary
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