Composer of the Week - Robert Schumann - The Battle for Clara

Donald Macleod explores Schumann's tortuous battle for Clara's hand in marriage. Her father Friedrich Wieck was determined to keep his daughter in his clutches at all costs, and legal battles, lengthy separations and slanderous attacks ensued before, undeterred, Robert and Clara were finally married in 1840 with the blessing of the court. Musically, this was a fruitful period for Schumann. Donald is joined by pianist Lucy Parham to discuss his epic Fantasy for piano - described by the composer as 'the most passionate thing I have ever written'. Lebhaft (Davidsbundlertanze) Andras Schiff (piano) Teldec 4509-99176-2 - Tr 2 Die Lowenbraut, Op 31 No 1 Anne Sofie Von Otter (mezzo-soprano) Bengt Forsberg (piano) DG 445 881-2 - Tr 11 Fantasy, Op 17 Martha Argerich (piano) EMI CDM 7635762 - Trs 1-3 Susser Freund, du blickest; An meinem Herzen, an meiner Brust; Nun hast du mir den ersten Schmertz getan (Frauenliebe und -leben, Op 42) Barbara Bonney (soprano) Vladimir Ashkenazy (piano) Decca 452 898-2 - Trs 15-17.