Barenboim begins with selections from the E.T.A. Hoffmann-inspired Fantasiestücke, depicting the personifications of Schumann's self-professed dual nature: the dreamy Eusebius of “Des Abends” (In the Evening) and the passionate Florestan of the effervescent “Traumes Wirren” (Dream’s Confusions).

The maestro then joins principals from the Staatskapelle Berlin (observing social distancing guidelines!) to perform the breathtaking Piano Quintet, unquestionably one of the composer's most important achievements. Encompassing a staggering variety of moods and colors, the work helped establish Schumann's reputation and redefined the quintet form (uniting piano and string quartet) for the Romantic era and beyond.

Daniel Barenboim appears courtesy of Deutsche Grammophon GmbH.

Photo: Daniel Barenboim © Peter Rigaud