Classical Music | Piano Music

Recorded on 09/04/2007, uploaded on 01/24/2009

Musician's or Publisher's Notes

Humoreske in B-flat Major, Op. 20       Robert Schumann

The 1830s were prolific years for the young Robert Schumann.  He had fallen in love with Clara Wieck, and while waiting for her to come of age he composed almost all the important piano works he would ever write.  Humoreske, completed rather quickly in March 1839, is neither a sonata nor or a suite; it is Schumann's most ambitious work in a free-form style.

The title of Humoreske also manifests Schumann's lifelong fascination with the connections between literature and music.  It is derived from the Latin word "humor," but in its medieval meaning of human disposition.  In German literature of the early 19th Century, a "humoreske" was a short prose sketch on some aspect of the human personality.  Schumann was the first composer to apply the term to a musical piece. 

There are five main sections in the Humoreske, followed by a substantial finale.  Each of the sections is in three-part form, but they are linked seamlessly and should not be regarded as distinct movements.  

The sensuous opening presents a melody that seems to yearn for different harmonies.  The first contrasting passage is full of surprises, including a truly humorous effect where the music keeps jumping back a measure.  The next section includes an "inner voice," a tune by Clara written in the score but not played.  A lyrical mood returns, but is interrupted by a brilliant Intermezzo.  The fourth section also includes passages of melodic sweetness and naiveté.  The passion of the fifth section leads into the extended finale, with its halting starts and repeated motifs, before the triumphant coda.    Soojin Ahn

Courtesy of International Music Foundation.