Talk and Concert - Clara Schumann: Artist and Muse

Clara Schumann (Clara Wieck) - virtuoso pianist and composer, wife of Robert Schumann, mother, teacher, friend and inspiration to many of her contemporaries - played many roles during the course of her life. She became one of the greatest performers of the century alongside Thalberg, Chopin, Rubinstein and Liszt, the latter dedicating both his 1838 and 1851 editions to her as one of the finest contemporary pianists. Clara was Schumann's muse and musical voice, creative partner and interpreter of his work. As a celebrated performer, she was able to promote her husband’s works. Clara was the inspiration and guide for much of the music of Brahms, who fell hopelessly in love with her as a young man. As with Schumann, she shared in the genius of Brahms, who in his own words described his relationship with her as “… the most beautiful experience of my life, its greatest wealth and its noblest content.” Clara maintained an inspiring friendship with Mendelssohn, who had the highest regard for her as a musician, and dedicated some of his music to her. Clara, in turn, included at least one of Mendelssohn’s works in almost every recital she gave during her long career as a concert pianist.

Along with Clara’s own music, this programme presents music composed by the men for whom she was friend, love, and inspiration. Join us to get a glimpse of the woman behind the Muse.