Description

Schumann's opus 14 exists in two versions. The first is a three-movement "Concert sans Orchestre" from 1836. The second is a "Grande Sonate" in five movements from 1853. The reason for the revision is unclear. However, the publisher of the initial version was delighted, considering the "idea of the concerto" to be very modern.

It's possible Schumann later responded to comments from dedicatee Ignaz Moscheles, who felt the piece had "less of the demands of a concerto and more the characteristics of a grand sonata."

In the revised edition, which now includes the complete early version, editor Ernst Herttrich provides detailed information on both versions in an extensive preface and commentary.