Description
The "Davidsbund" was a fictional group of artists that Schumann imagined were engaged in a revolutionary struggle against the stagnant structures of the art world. The group's members included both real and imaginary people. Schumann published the first edition of his "Davidstänze" under the pseudonyms "Florestan" and "Eusebius" - two contrasting aspects of his own personality, one impetuous and the other gentle. Clara Wieck, to whom Schumann had unsuccessfully proposed marriage while composing the work, is also represented in the dances. Schumann dedicated the "Davidstänze" primarily to her. These short, emotionally diverse musical portraits provide an intimate glimpse into Schumann's state of mind at the time.
