This course focuses on the works of Robert Schumann and Frédéric Chopin, whose 200th birthdays are celebrated in 2010. Living and working during the same period, these two composers made unique and important contributions to the piano literature. Many of Schumann’s works drew on literary sources and his music was rich with imagery, as heard in his Papillons. In addition, he developed a new form that creates a large unit from seemingly unrelated short pieces, as in his Kreisleriana — which is dedicated to Chopin. Unlike Schumann, Chopin wrote almost exclusively for piano and introduced a new sound — reflected in his mazurkas and polonaises — that was influenced by the folk music of his native Poland. Chopin’s work subsequently inspired national pride in other composers such as Liszt, Grieg, and Albéniz. Students explore these pianistic styles, focusing on the repertoire of Schumann in the fall semester and Chopin in the spring.
Audition required. Not subject to N.Y. Philharmonic discount.
Placement Auditions
Fall Semester: September 10 and 11, 4:30 – 7:30 pm
Spring Semester: January 6 and 7, 4:30 – 7:30 pm
