Schumann: Symphonic Études, Kreisleriana & Carnaval

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Robert Schumann with this remarkable collection of his most celebrated piano works. Recorded live and released on Orfeo, this album showcases Schumann's extraordinary compositional prowess and the pianist's virtuosic skill. The album is a comprehensive journey through Schumann's diverse musical landscape, featuring three of his most significant works: the Symphonic Études, Kreisleriana, and Carnaval.

The Symphonic Études, Op. 13, is a tour de force of technical brilliance and emotional depth. Each of the twelve etudes presents a unique character and challenge, ranging from the introspective "Espressivo" to the exhilarating "Finale. Allegro brillante." Kreisleriana, Op. 16, is a cycle of eight pieces inspired by the fictional violinist Johannes Kreisler, offering a rich tapestry of moods and emotions. The album concludes with Carnaval, Op. 9, a whimsical and imaginative suite of character pieces that paint a vivid musical portrait of a masquerade ball.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, this album is a testament to Schumann's enduring influence on the classical piano repertoire. The live recordings capture the raw energy and spontaneity of the performances, providing an intimate and engaging listening experience. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Schumann's works, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.