The present recording contrasts two crucial periods in the creative life of Schumann, when the works of his maturity are in dialogue with those of his twilight years, both groups together forming a repertory of chamber music, the conception of which accompanied the composer throughout his career.

Rooted in the intimacy of home performances , these pieces are an exceptional record of the art of transcription in the nineteenth century – an art that is essential not just useful for expanding a repertory (that for clarinet and viola) unjustly shunned by the Romantics.