Schumann Piano Sonata No.1 in F-sharp Minor, Op.11

Recently, I found myself drawn into the world of Schumann, by the Piano Sonata No.1 in F-sharp Minor. I especially love the first movement, it’s got such an unique opening, powerful and creative. Historically, Schumann was probably most well-known for his piano suite: Kinderszenen (Scenes from the Childhood). He was also probably well known for his dramatic life and traumatic ending. Nevertheless, I think his works, especially those of larger scales, are underestimated and are not played as often as the works from the other Romantic Period Composers.

Piano Sonata No.1 has an unusual composition in the way that it has 4 movements, instead of the more commonly acceptable 3 movements. However, each of these 4 movements are beautifully constructed and brings the listener upon a imaginary world.

Here is Russian Pianist Lazar Berman playing Schumann Piano Sonata No.1, I hope you enjoy it as much as do.

I. Introduzione: Un poco adagio – Allegro vivace

II. Aria

III. Scherzo: Allegrissimo. Intermezzo. Lento

IV. Finale: Allegro un poco maestoso