Description

Schumann began work on the Toccata Op. 7 at just 20 years old, though he was then studying law to appease his family's wishes. He did not initially intend to publish his first manuscript, titled "Exercice," but would later revisit these sketches as he found his footing as a musician.

Similar to his approach with the Paganini studies, Schumann aimed to blend virtuosity and musical substance in the Toccata. The final published version differed significantly from his initial "Exercice" ideas. While the autograph of the completed Toccata is missing, Schumann's original "Exercice" manuscript has survived and is reproduced in the appendix of our revised edition.