Robert Schumann ： Carnaval ‘Scènes mignonnes sur quatre notes’ Op.9

One of Schumann’s major piano suites, this work presents a succession of short movements depicting varied scenes that evoke the colorful world of Carnival. Contrasting figures and characters—including Pierrot, Harlequin, male and female personages, and representations of the composer himself—appear in turn, while lively dances, dreamlike melodies, and witty episodes alternate with great skill. A motif derived from four notes returns in varied forms throughout the work, loosely connecting the individual pieces. In performance, it is important to distinguish the character and sense of tempo of each piece clearly, while maintaining a well-balanced texture so that the inner voices do not disappear. Giving elasticity to the sharp rhythms, sustaining long phrases in lyrical passages, and using the pedal carefully to avoid clouding the sound will bring out the work’s fantasy and humor.