Clara Schumann Piano Trio in G minor, Op. 17 (movements I and II)

Clara Schumann Piano Trio in G minor, Op. 17 performed by The Scherzo Project
I. Allegro Moderato
II. Scherzo, Tempo di Menuetto
Program Notes:
Clara Schumann wrote her piano trio in 1846 while living in Dresden, Germany. She was inspired to write the piece while watching her husband suffer from grave mental illness. This trio later influenced Robert Schumann’s 1st piano trio, which bears many resemblances to Clara’s trio.
The first movement has a mysterious and urgent feel, while also being slightly melancholic. It is quite dramatic, with some people relating parts of the piece to an argument between Robert and Clara.
The second movement, a Scherzo is more playful and joking, with a lighter and more lively feel, contrasting to the drama of the first movement. The Trio, on the other hand, is more graceful, with more development while returning to the main theme of the Scherzo.
Most chamber music during the romantic era would be performed in private households. The word “chamber” is similar to the French word “chambre” which means “room”. This relates to the fact that chamber music is known to be played by a small ensemble in a household room.