Robert Schumann

Date of Birth: June 8, 1810

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: July 29, 1856

Biography

Robert Schumann was a pivotal figure in the Romantic era of classical music. Born in Zwickau, Saxony, Schumann initially pursued a career in law before dedicating himself to music under the guidance of Friedrich Wieck. His early ambitions as a pianist were thwarted by a hand injury, leading him to focus on composition. Schumann is renowned for his symphonies, piano music, and lieder, often characterized by their lyrical quality and emotional depth. He married Clara Wieck, a distinguished pianist, and composer, whose influence and support were crucial to his career. Schumann’s life was marred by mental illness, culminating in his confinement to a mental asylum where he died. His works remain staples of the classical repertoire, celebrated for their innovation and expressive power.

5 Interesting Facts about Robert Schumann

1. Schumann founded the influential musical journal “Neue Zeitschrift für Musik” in 1834, which became a platform for promoting young composers like Chopin and Brahms.

2. He had a deep fascination with literature, which is reflected in many of his compositions, often inspired by literary works and characters.

3. Schumann’s famous “Carnaval” Op. 9 features musical cryptograms, embedding his name and those of his friends into the music.

4. He was one of the first composers to use the term “song cycle,” and his song cycles “Dichterliebe” and “Frauenliebe und -leben” are significant contributions to the genre.

5. Schumann struggled with severe mental health issues throughout his life, including depression and auditory hallucinations, leading to his attempted suicide in 1854.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Robert Schumann

1. “To send light into the darkness of men’s hearts – such is the duty of the artist.”

2. “The artist’s vocation is to send light into the human heart.”

3. “Nothing right can be accomplished in art without enthusiasm.”

4. “It is music’s lofty mission to shed light on the depths of the human heart.”

5. “The musician who always plays only one kind of piece finally ceases to be a musician.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

There are no accurate historical records detailing Robert Schumann’s net worth. However, as a composer and music critic in the 19th century, it is unlikely he amassed significant wealth by contemporary standards.

Children

Robert and Clara Schumann had eight children: 1. Marie Schumann (1841–1929) 2. Elise Schumann (1843–1928) 3. Julie Schumann (1845–1872) 4. Emil Schumann (1846–1847) 5. Ludwig Schumann (1848–1899) 6. Ferdinand Schumann (1849–1891) 7. Eugenie Schumann (1851–1938) 8. Felix Schumann (1854–1879)