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Clara Schumann
Clara and Robert Schumann
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The prodigious ability of pianist Clara Schumann (1819-1896) awed even skeptical audiences. Her brutal and ambitious father, Friedrich Wieck, had been determined to turn young Clara's natural talent into fame and fortune. His formula worked wonders, but he did not count on another force growing to compete with his own: Clara's love for one of his piano students, Robert Schumann.
Robert Schumann (1810-1856) was nine years older than Clara. He showed tremendous promise as a composer, and was in the vanguard of musical romanticism. However, Robert's moodiness and lack of stable income were not ideal characteristics for a potential son-in-law. For rational and irrational reasons, Friedrich Wieck fought to keep Clara and Robert apart. The lovers took their case to court, and were eventually granted the right to marry. Their wedding took place on September 12, 1840, the day before Clara's 21st birthday.
At its best, marriage spurred them to great artistic achievement. Clara's love inspired Robert's forays into new forms. Robert's encouragement led Clara to stretch herself as a composer, and she saw herself as a champion of his music. Their marriage was at its worst when Robert was depressed and Clara was deprived of the approval she craved. They had eight children together, one of whom died in infancy.
Clara and Robert were delighted when a good-looking young pianist and composer called Johannes Brahms (1833-1897) presented himself at their home one day in 1853. Brahms became a daily visitor to the Schumanns' Dusseldorf home.
Robert Schumann attempted suicide in 1854. He asked to go to a mental institution. Brahms then supported Clara in every way he could, and reported to her on his visits to Robert. Clara began concert tours again with fervor, leaving her children in the care of family, friends and schools.
Robert died in the asylum on July 29, 1856. In all, four children predeceased Clara, and one surviving son, Ludwig, was committed to an asylum. Clara and Brahms maintained a deep friendship to the end of their days.
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