Biography
Robert Schumann (8 June 1810 – 29 July 1856) was a German composer and music critic of the Romantic era. Born in Zwickau, he initially studied law before pursuing music, training as a pianist under Friedrich Wieck. A hand injury ended his performing ambitions, leading him to focus on composition and criticism; he co-founded the Neue Zeitschrift für Musik.
Schumann composed extensively for piano, including works such as Carnaval, Kinderszenen and Kreisleriana, as well as lieder, four symphonies, chamber music and an opera. His Piano Quintet in E-flat major, Op. 44, features in the soundtrack of Ingmar Bergman's Fanny and Alexander (1982). He is also credited with music for Ludwig (1973). In 1840 he married pianist and composer Clara Wieck.
