Op. 85/12 Horn: Abendlied (Evening Song) by Robert Schumann Op. 85, No. 12. Duration: 3:10 Score: 3 pg. 29 ms. common time. Lento – quarter note = 40. Piano part: 2 pg. solo part 1 pg.
Schumann Background
Robert Schumann (1810 –1856) was a German composer and, moreover,a music critic. Music historians, as well as critics, generally agree that heis one of the greatest composers of the Romantic era. In the first place, Schumann was studying tobecome a lawyer. He quit law school, however, to pursue a career as a concert pianist. Be that as it may, he injured his hand andruined any chance of success as a virtuoso pianist. As a result, Schumann turnedhis musical attention to composing.

The Beginning of the End
In1848, Robert Schumann was in fact only 38 years old. Nevertheless, he wasalready weakening as a composer and conductor. His productivity, on thewhole, was slowing down. Furthermore, his conducting job at one of the world’soldest orchestras had come under great criticism.

Last Period
Schumannbecame inspired by the death of his friend Felix Mendelssohn theyear before. Similarly, he was stimulated by the Revolutions of 1848, andconsequently composed some of his most substantive works. It wasduring this last period of inspiration that he wrote his Scenes from Faust. Furthermore, he finishedthe Requiem for Mignon and the Introduction and Allegro for Piano & Orchestra. Next, he composed Scenes from the Forest forpiano. Finally, he composed the Twelve Four-hand Piano Worksfor Small & Large Children, Op. 85. This collection turns out, insummary, to be Schumann’s last great collection of piano literature.

Abendlied
Thefinal movement (Op.85/12) of this great collection on balance is entitled Abendlied or Evening Song. It is inessence a very effective recital encore especially following a more aggressiveor fast-paced piece. This is, in either case, a chance to develop long rubatophrases and demonstrate your musical sensitivity. This music, for the mostpart, sets a quiet, mysterious, and somewhat melancholy mood reminiscent ofevening-time just after sunset when the shadows become long and the sky beginsto darken.