Great Barrington — Close Encounters with Music will present on Sunday, October 20, a program of Schumann and Brahms that will especially appeal to soap opera aficionados or anyone given to Romantic melodrama.
The program on Sunday is as follows:
- Robert Schumann — Piano Quartet in E-flat Major, “Schön Hedwig,” and Piano Quartet in E-flat Major
- Clara Schumann — Piano Concerto and “Three Romances for Violin and Piano”
- Johannes Brahms — Piano Variations Op. 9
The performers on Sunday are:
- Adam Golka — piano
- Itamar Zorman — violin
- Helena Baillie — viola
- Yehuda Hanani — cello
- Michael Wise — narration
The relationship between Clara Schumann, Robert Schumann, and Johannes Brahms has been the subject of conjecture and rumor since the mid-19th century. But while there is ample evidence that Johannes Brahms and Clara Schumann shared a deep emotional bond, no one has ever offered compelling evidence that the two ever had a romantic affair, and Brahms’ correspondence, while full of affection towards Clara, clearly suggests their relationship was platonic.
When Robert Schumann and Johannes Brahms met in 1853, Robert immediately recognized the younger composer’s extraordinary talent, and he played a crucial role in bringing Johannes to public attention. A turning point in Brahms’ life and career came when Robert wrote an article titled “Neue Bahnen” (“New Paths”) in the Neue Zeitschrift für Musik (New Journal for Music) that praised Brahms to the high heavens as a musical genius, writing that he was “destined to give ideal expression to the times in the highest and most ideal manner.” Schumann’s article not only reinforced Brahms’ reputation in musical circles but also connected him with major influencers, including publishers and performers. This endorsement set Bahms on the path to becoming one of the most celebrated composers of the Romantic era.
Of course, Brahms was forever grateful to Schumann for this early support and remained closely connected to the Schumann family. After Robert was committed to an asylum in 1854, Brahms and Clara became very close, and Brahms supported her both emotionally and professionally. He spent quite a bit of time with Clara and her many children, and his letters to her are often filled with affection.
While Brahms clearly admired Clara deeply, it seems that mutual respect, friendship, and artistic collaboration, not any kind of romantic entanglement, are what nourished their friendship. The emotional intensity of their relationship has fueled speculation, but it remains just that: speculation.
A reception on the Mahaiwe stage follows Sunday’s concert. You are invited to meet the musicians and enjoy a light repast from Authentic Eats by Ukrainian chef Oleg.
Hear Adam Golka, Itamar Zorman, Helena Baillie, Yehuda Hanani, and Michael Wise perform a program of Schumann and Brahms on Sunday, October 20, 4 p.m., at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, 14 Castle Street, Great Barrington, MA 01201. More information and tickets are available here or by calling (413) 528-0100.
