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Frontiers in Art Research, 2024, 6(12); doi: 10.25236/FAR.2024.061203.

A Study of Schumann's A Minor Piano Concerto

Author(s)

Yuxuan Ding

Corresponding Author:
Yuxuan Ding
Affiliation(s)

Frost School of Music, University of Miami, Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33124, USA

Abstract

This study focuses on Robert Schumann's Piano Concerto in A Minor, Op. 54, and analyzes both performance practice and teaching aspects. This concerto combines Romantic expression with Classical structure, highlighting Schumann's composition techniques and emotional depth. The research compares the performances of three famous pianists: Claudio Arrau, Walter Kamper, and Martha Argerich. By examining their approaches to tempo, dynamics, and ensemble work, the study shows how each pianist reveals different aspects of the concerto. The study also looks at specific technical challenges such as chords, arpeggios, and the balance between piano and orchestra. The goal is to provide valuable insights for pianists and educators, offering practical solutions to mastering this piece. This research combines historical context, technical study, and performance practice to enhance the understanding of Schumann's concerto and its teaching value.

Keywords

Robert Schumann; Piano concerto; Teaching value

Cite This Paper

Yuxuan Ding. A Study of Schumann's A Minor Piano Concerto. Frontiers in Art Research (2024) Vol. 6, Issue 12: 16-23. https://doi.org/10.25236/FAR.2024.061203.

References

[1] Stephen Roe, “The Autograph Manuscript of Schumann’s Piano Concerto,” The Musical Times 131, no. 1764 (1990): 77–79. https://doi.org/10.2307/966392.

[2] Claudio Arrau, pianist. Piano Concerto, Op.54 by Robert Schumann. Conducted by George Hurst. London Philharmonic Orchestra. Recorded June 8, 1963. YouTube. youtu.be/MXmnfYKJjNQ. Accessed 23 Jan. 2022.

[3] Walter Kamper. “Concerto Pour Violon et Orchestre in A Minor, Op. 54.” Schumann: Concerto pour piano (Mono Version). Bibliothèque nationale de France, 1963, MP3. Accessed 23 Jan, 2022. open.spotify.com/track/4mJm6W8dTDv2gFz2GCj1oP?si=LUPFzVpdSyiX_ rz5wrqzcw& context=spotify%3Aalbum%3A61jpjEap8rpKDyzfcYPA7T.

[4] Martha Argerich, pianist. Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in Minor by Robert Schumann. Conducted by Chailly Riccardo. Berliner Philharmoniker. Recorded Nov 29, 2014. Berliner Philharmoniker Digital Concert Hall. www.digitalconcerthall.com/en/concert/20314. Accessed 23 Jan. 2022.

[5] Robert Schumann, Robert Schumann Konzert A-Moll Für Klavier Und Orchester Opus 54. 2nd ed. (Frankfurt: C. F. Peters, 1956), 38.

[6] Yuxuan Ding. “Mid-Sessions Yuxuan Ding, 26 Jan 2022.” YouTube, 26 Feb. 2022, youtu.be/zGihJ 2QSzkc. Accessed 26 Jan. 2022.