Novelletten (Schumann)

Schumann in 1839, one year after composing the Novelletten.

The Novelletten, Op. 21, is a set of 8 pieces for solo piano, written by Robert Schumann in 1838.[1]

Background

The Novelletten were composed during February 1838, a period of great struggle for the composer.[2] Schumann originally intended the eight pieces to be performed together as a group, though they are often performed separately with great success.

This set of pieces is an excellent example of Schumann's keyboard style.[1]

Analysis

No. 1 in F major


This piece contains 7 sections, alternating between a staccato march and flowing legato passages. The piece is a modified Rondo form.

No. 2 in D major


This virtuosic piece is graceful and effective. An Intermezzo section in the middle contrasts and varies the piece.

No. 3 in D major


This piece displays the composer's sense of humour through the use of rapid staccato chords. An Intermezzo section in the middle of the piece is used to contrast.

No. 4 in D major


This piece is quite loosely organized in terms of structure; it is an interesting waltz that uses cross-rhythms and syncopation effectively.

No. 5 in D major


This piece is in the form of a polonaise; its principal section contains three main ideas which are then overcome by the persistent rhythms of the Trio section.

No. 6 in A major


This piece uses an increasing tempo to characterize the progression of sections. Starting from the staccato opening, each of the following passages are marked a few metronome beats faster until the coda, which returns to the original tempo.

No. 7 in E major


This piece features a beautiful and lyrical middle section; it also features many virtuosic passages containing fast, brilliant octaves.

No. 8 in F sharp minor

The concluding piece of the set, is actually two pieces in one. The first part is a passionate etude in 2/4, the second has the nature of a march.[1]

References

  1. 1 2 3 Novelletten Op. 21 at Allmusic
  2. ↑ Novelletten Op. 21 at Michigan State University Press
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