Schumann: The Complete Songs, Vol. 1 - Christine Schäfer

This superlative disc is the first in a series that includes all the vocal music of Robert Schumann for voice and piano. It contains a majority of Lieder from the alter years of the composer’s life. As we have come to expect from Graham Johnson, the CD comes with comprehensive notes on the songs, along with biographical sketches of the many poets set by Schumann. Christine Schäfer’s singing is faultless.

Most of the music on this album is also available as part of the specially priced box set Schumann: The Complete Songs: 'A landmark issue no serious collector should be without' (The Mail on Sunday).

CDJ33101  71 minutes 50 seconds
GRAMOPHONE AWARD WINNER
GRAMOPHONE CRITICS' CHOICE
CANNES CLASSIQUE SOLO VOCAL AWARD
‘Schäfer evokes comparison with Elisabeth Schumann and with the young Elly Ameling, whom in tone and freshness of response she often resembles. In sum, a delectable, often revelatory recital … fro ...
‘Her voice combines ethereal radiance and clarity with resolute, unwavering focus. Johnson's account of the piano parts is superlative [and] his booklet notes are also exemplary—comprehensive, erudite ...
‘A young singer on the threshold of a potentially great career … a born Lieder singer … her fresh bright tone is a consistent joy’ (The Sunday Times)