To send light into the darkness of men's hearts - such is the duty of the artist.
Robert SchumannRead
Mendelssohn I consider the first musician of the day; I doff my hat to him as my superior. He plays with everything, especially with the grouping of the instruments in the orchestra, but with such ease, delicacy and art, with such mastery throughout.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Schumann praises Mendelssohn's exceptional musical ability and artistry.
In this quote, Robert Schumann expresses his admiration for Felix Mendelssohn, whom he regards as a preeminent composer and musician of his time. Schumann highlights Mendelssohn's ability to skillfully manipulate orchestral groupings with grace and mastery, suggesting that Mendelssohn's work stands out for its artistic finesse and emotional depth.
Themes
MusicArtistryAdmirationOrchestraMastery
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used to praise a composer's debut at a concert.
More from Robert Schumann
All quotes →It was an unforgettable picture to see Chopin sitting at the piano like a clairvoyant, lost in his dreams; to see how his vision communicated itself through his playing, and how, at the end of each piece, he had the sad habit of running one finger over the length of the plaintive keyboard, as though to tear himself forcibly away from his dream.
Robert SchumannRead
I am so fresh in soul and spirit that life gushes and bubbles around me in a thousand springs.
Robert SchumannRead
Think it a vile habit to alter works of good composers, to omit parts of them, or to insert new-fashioned ornaments. This is the greatest insult you can offer to Art.
Robert SchumannRead
You write to become immortal, or because the piano happens to be open, or you've looked into a pair of beautiful eyes.
Robert SchumannRead
Endeavour to play easy pieces well and with elegance; that is better than to play difficult pieces badly.
Robert SchumannRead
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