Robert Schumann (8 June 1810 – 29 July 1856) was a German composer and influential music critic. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest composers of the Romantic era. Schumann left the study of law, intending to pursue a career as a virtuoso pianist. He had been assured by his teacher Friedrich Wieck that he could become the finest pianist in Europe, but a hand injury ended this dream. Schumann then focused his musical energies on composing. Violin Sonata No.3, WoO 2 (1853) 1. Ziemlich langsam - Lebhaft 2. Scherzo 3. Intermezzo 4. Finale Ara Malikian, violin and Serouj Kradjian, piano The Sonata No. 3 for Violin and Piano in A Minor is heard much less often and was composed in two stages in 1853. The last two movements were part of the socalled "FAE" Sonata, a joint composition by Robert Schumann, Albert Dietrich and Johannes Brahms, which was intended to be a gif for their mutual friend Joseph Joachim. The Sonata is based on the anagram "FAE" which stands for Joachim's motto: "Frei, aber einsam" (Free, but lonely"). A short time later Schumann added two additional movements he had himself composed. "The concentrated, energetic addition fits perfectly with the other movements. This is now without a doubt a new whole by itself!" was Joachim's expression of approval. All the movements of this sonata are likewise related by the sequence "FAE" which literally distinguishes the two original movements and is also found in the later, modified version. The Sonata No. 3 for Violin and Piano is Schumann's last composition in cyclical sonata form and was, moreover, the last work he completed before the outbreak of his mental disorder. After the composer's breakdown Clara Schumann and Joachim drew comfort and hope from playing it together. This may have been the reason that the piece did not appear in print until 1956, the hundredt anniversary of Schumann's death. Publisher info: Composer's manuscript, 1853. Copyright: Public Domain - Non-PD US