Variations on a Nocturne by Chopin

Variations on a Nocturne by Chopin Synopsis

Although Robert Schumann demonstrated a remarkable sensitivity in his approach to Chopin's pianistic world in the Carnaval Op. 9, his variations on a theme by Chopin have been hitherto ignored. Based on the main theme from the well-known G-minor Nocturne Op. 15/3, Schumann's undated variation fragment is believed to have been composed towards 1834. This would make it almost contemporaneous with the Carnaval. It is surprising that Schumann's Chopin variations have survived in two manuscripts. The strongly divergent readings are elucidated in the critical notes. In addition, Joachim Draheim has transformed the fragment into a complete little recital piece by carefully adding the closing bars.