Fantasie in C, Op. 17 (Schumann)
Movements
i Durchaus fantastisch und leidenschaftlich vorzutragen; Im Legenden-Ton – Quite fantastic and passionately delivered; In the tone of a legend; ii Mäßig. Durchaus energisch – Moderate. Quite energetic. (in E♭ major); iii Langsam getragen. Durchweg leise zu halten. – Taken slowly. Keep quiet throughout.
Notes
Composed in 1836 and published in 1839, the Fantasie in C is one of Schumann’s early piano works. It is a sonata-like fantasy in three movements. In 1836, a plan to build a monument was presented in his hometown of Bonn to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Beethoven’s death. Liszt was the primary person to undertake raising funds, and Schumann, who acceded to support the plan, composed this piece intending to donate his royalties from the publication of it.
At the preface is a quote of the poem by Schlegel (“Resounding through all the notes/In the earth’s colorful dream/There sounds a faint long-drawn note/For the one who listens in secret.”), and according to Schumann, this “melody” refers to his love, Clara. In addition, at the end of the first movement, a song from Beethoven’s song cycle “To the Distant Beloved” is quoted, and the lyrics read, ” Accept then these songs [beloved, which I sang for you alone]” suggesting that this piece is filled with respect for Beethoven as well as personal feelings for Clara. This was a time of uncertainty for the couple, as Clara’s father and Schumann’s teacher, Wieck, was opposed to their marriage.
