Great Emotions from Schumann & Beach

Clara Schumann was one of the great piano stars of the 19th century and toured extensively throughout Europe. After marriage, she was forced to set aside composition, but remained a highly respected musician and devoted herself to the music of her husband Robert Schumann. The two were considered the most exciting musical couple of their time.

Robert Schumann wrote his String Quartet No. 3 during a few intense summer weeks, just two years into his marriage to Clara. The quartet is rhythmic and filled with long, romantic melodies.

American composer and pianist Amy Beach began her professional career as a pianist in her teenage years. She too paused her concert career after marriage, but achieved fame both in the United States and Europe during her lifetime. Her Piano Quintet in F-sharp minor had its premiere with Beach herself at the piano in Boston 118 years ago - and with dramatic brushstrokes, it is one of her most powerful works.