Can Cakmur - Schubert + Schumann

The ongoing "Schubert +" series by pianist Can Cakmur has brought to light an extraordinary Schubertian. In the sixth edition of the series, works by Franz Schubert alternate with works by composers whom he inspired. In the current program Robert Schumann takes center stage. Schumann had great appreciation for Schubert and was one of the first to recognize him as one of the most visionary composers of all time, which alone would justify this combination. Çakmur, however, goes deeper and uses the program as a starting point for a philosophical discussion about naturalism in German Romanticism. On the program is Schubert's brilliant Sonata in D major, D 850, which was composed in 1825 in the spa town of Bad Gastein. The composition in the midst of the Alpine landscape likely nourished his imagination and is reflected in the themes of millers, hunters, forests and mountains that predominate in his songs. Robert Schumann's "Waldszenen" (Forest Scenes) follow on this source of inspiration. In these nine miniatures, Schumann returns to the cheerful and simple lyricism reminiscent of early works such as "Kinderszenen". The program concludes with Schumann's "Three Fantasy Pieces", Op. 111, which according to Cakmur were included because of the striking similarity between the second piece and the slow movement of Schubert's sonata. This program promises a fascinating journey to the heart of German Romanticism through the work of two of its most important representatives, under the direction of Can Çakmur.