Clara Schumann, Three Romances for Violin and Piano, Op. 22

Clara Schumann (1819-1896) became one of the most celebrated pianists in Europe for much of the 19th century. Her career began at an early age with a concert tour to Paris in 1830, spurred by the unrelenting discipline of her father and teacher, Friedrich Wieck. Wieck had another student named Robert who at age 20 was apparently so taken with Clara that he decided to give up his law studies and pursue music full time. (Someday I must write something about all the people who gave up the study of law for music.)

Robert proposed to Clara when she turned 18, and her father vigorously opposed it. The couple actually sued to allow the marriage. Robert could have used that law degree. Clara became the breadwinner, performing frequently. As late as 1846, someone at one of Clara’s concerts reportedly asked Robert, “Are you musical, too?” The marriage would produce eight children before Robert’s untimely death in 1856. Clara would outlive him by 40 years and be a major force in ensuring recognition of his works.

Clara was also a composer. She completed her first piano concerto at age 16 and performed it at the Gewandhaus with Felix Mendelssohn conducting. Much of her writing was accomplished in her earlier years before Robert’s death.

She composed the Three Romances in 1853, the same year she met the 20-year-old Brahms. Clara and Robert were both impressed with Brahms, and Robert published a glowing article about him. 1853, if you recall, was a very auspicious year for Brahms, the same year that he met Liszt. Liszt, along with his troublesome son-in-law Wagner, would push for musical innovations in what became known as the “War of the Romantics.” Brahms would personify the traditionalists, with Clara as his ally and friend for life.

It adds up to a pretty interesting biography. In fact, it was the subject of a 1947 movie with Katherine Hepburn playing Clara. I have not seen the movie, so I can’t recommend it or vouch for its accuracy.