Love? Homage to Clara Schumann

To mark 200 years since her birth, this cleverly conceived album shines a spotlight on Clara Schumann, not just as a composer of miniatures but also as the muse to some great composers. Brahms adored her and we’re given his four-hand Variations on a Theme by Robert Schumann, while Theodor Kirchner, one-time piano partner of Clara, contributes three preludes. Julie von Webenau, a friend of both Schumanns, is represented by L’Adieu et le Retour, and there’s a lovely arrangement of a Brahms song with Julian Prégardien and choir. Pianist Yaara Tal, the project’s instigator, has created a wonderfully affectionate celebration.