Schumann, Robert. (1810–1856). Quintett für Pianoforte 2 Violinen, Viola und Violoncello… Op.44. [Parts.] . Leipzig: Breitkopf & Hartel. [1843]. First edition. 31, 10, 10, 10, 10pp. Engraved folio. [PN] 6899. In very fine condition, the first issue of this beautiful work. In an elegant custom box with red marble papers and crimson cloth spine. Fuld p.454; Hofmann pp.102-103; only a later issue in Hoboken.


Composed during his "Chamber Music Year," in just a few weeks in September and October of 1842. Prior to that year, Schumann had completed no chamber music at all with the exception of an early piano quartet (in 1829). However, during his year-long concentration on the genre, he wrote three string quartets and a piano trio and piano quartet in addition to his popular piano quintet. The work is dedicated to his wife, Clara Schumann who often performed the work throughout her life.