Robert Schumann (1810 – 1856) was an influential German music critic and composer who was troubled by mental health issues for much of his life. Schumann’s enthusiasm for music was evident at an early age but he was discouraged from pursuing this as a career and encouraged towards the law instead. Ultimately, music won out and Schumann began studying piano with Friedrich Wieck, whose daughter Clara was later to become Schumann’s wife. After damage to one hand affected his playing ability, Schumann turned his attention to musicology and composition.

Träumerei (Dreaming) has been described as one of the most famous piano works ever written. It is one of a collection of short pieces, entitled Kinderscenen (Scenes from Childhood) written in 1838. This arrangement, for mixed woodwind duo of clarinet and bassoon, makes a charming short recital piece.