Robert Schumann

Born: 1810 | Died: 1856

Composer

Robert Alexander Schumann was born in Zwickau, eastern Germany. He was one of the most famous romantic composers in the nineteenth century.

Early on in life, Schumann decided to pursue a musical profession first as a pianist in Leipzig and then as a composer. In 1840, he married Clara Wieck, the daughter of his piano teacher. She was a virtuoso piano player and went on to perform many of Schumann’s works.

Schumann was also a famous music critic who recognized talent in the young Wagner and Brahms. His music reflects a deeply personal nature of Romanticism. His early compositions were an attempt to break free from the restraints of classical forms. Much of his acclaim came after his lifetime. Today his music is regarded as original in harmony, rhythm and form. Among Schumann’s most famous works are: “Papillons” (op.2), “Toccata in C”, “Symphony Etudes”, “Carnaval” (op.9), “Fantasiestücke,” “Warum,” “In der Nacht,” “Faschingschwank aus Wien,” “Kinderszenen” and “Träumerei.”

In February of 1852, Schumann attempted suicide by trying to drown himself in the Rhine River. Rescued at the last minute, it was determined that he was insane and by his own request he was placed in an asylum where he died several years later.

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