Clara Josephine Schumann was a German pianist, composer, and piano teacher. Starting young, she was a child prodigy (a young person with exceptional qualities or abilities). Her father made her practise for two hours a day alongside her daily piano, violin, singing,
theory, harmony and composition lessons. Much of her childhood was spent travelling and performing with her father. In 1840, Clara married famous composer
Robert Schumann.

Clara Schumann’s Music:

1. 1836- Piano Concerto- Her first piano concerto completed at the age of 16, filled with ideas and originality.
2. 1836- 4 Pièces Caractéristiques- This was written for solo piano and was performed often during her early career.
3. 1835- Drei Romanzen- Considered to be one of her finest works. This is a complicated with a range of musical styles.
4. 1855- Variations on a Theme by Robert Schumann- The Schumanns were very close and she kept a diary about their marriage. This composition explores her emotions within their marriage.

Interesting Facts!

• At the young age of just 13, Clara was one of the first pianists to perform from memory. This has now become standard practice for most professional pianists.
• Clara and Robert Schumann had 8 children together!
• Over her career, Schumann gave over 238 concerts with violinist Joseph Joachim in Germany and Britain.

Listen to Clara Schumann’s Music!