The Robert Schumann House, known locally as Robert-Schumann-Haus Zwickau, is a gem nestled in the heart of Zwickau, Saxony, Germany. This charming building is not just an architectural delight but also a treasure trove of history, dedicated to one of the most influential composers of the Romantic era, Robert Schumann. Whether you are a music aficionado, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, the Robert Schumann House offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and legacy of this musical genius.
The history of the Robert Schumann House dates back to 1450, but its significance soared when Robert Schumann was born here on June 8, 1810. The Schumann family moved to Zwickau in 1808, where Robert's father, August Schumann, established a successful publishing house. The family lived in this house until Robert was seven years old. This early 19th-century building, with its distinctive gabled roof and quaint windows, has been meticulously restored and expanded to preserve its historical essence while accommodating a modern museum.
In 1910, to mark the centenary of Schumann's birth, the city of Zwickau inaugurated the Robert Schumann Museum. Initially, the museum's collection was modest, housed in the Ratsschulbibliothek Zwickau, and later moved to the König-Albert-Museum in 1914. Martin Kreisig, the museum's first director, played a pivotal role in expanding the collection, acquiring numerous documents and autographs from Schumann's daughters, Marie and Eugenie.
After World War II, the museum found its permanent home in Schumann's birthplace, which was reconstructed following a devastating flood in 1954. The museum officially opened in 1956 as the Robert Schumann House, featuring a museum, concert hall, and research center. The current exhibition, which underwent a thoughtful expansion in 2011, owes much to the vision of its second director, Georg Eismann.
The Robert Schumann House boasts the world's largest collection dedicated to Robert and Clara Schumann, displayed across eight exhibition rooms. Each room offers a unique insight into different phases of Schumann's life and work.
Room one delves into Schumann's early years in Zwickau, showcasing his father's publishing house, his initial literary efforts, and his school days. Rooms two and three focus on his student years in Leipzig and Heidelberg, highlighting his decision to pursue music over law, his intense piano studies, and his budding romance with Clara Wieck, a celebrated pianist and Schumann's future wife.
Room four explores the couple's early married life in Leipzig, where Schumann composed symphonies, chamber music, and oratorios. It also touches on their friendship with Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy and their extensive tour of Russia. Room five covers their subsequent move to Dresden, a period marked by Schumann's growing reputation and the founding of the Dresden Choral Society.
Room six chronicles Schumann's tenure as Music Director in Düsseldorf, a time of both professional challenges and significant compositions, including the Rhenish Symphony. It also highlights his friendships with Johannes Brahms and Joseph Joachim. The final years of Schumann's life, spent in a mental institution in Endenich, are poignantly depicted here.
Room seven is dedicated to Clara Schumann and her tireless efforts to promote her husband's work after his death. Her influence on the dissemination of Schumann's music through teaching, performances, and the first complete edition of his works is well documented. Personal items from the Schumann family, including a chessboard and domino set, provide a glimpse into their everyday life.
Room eight, the birthroom of Robert Schumann, now serves as a memorial room. Here, visitors can admire valuable originals from the Schumann family's possessions, such as Robert's standing desk and a grand piano by André Stein, which Clara received as a gift from her father. This piano, a highlight of the museum's collection, was even featured on the reverse side of the former 100-DM note.
The Robert Schumann House also hosts three to four special exhibitions annually, focusing on various aspects of the lives of Robert and Clara Schumann and their relationships with friends, colleagues, and family. The museum's collection of historical keyboard instruments, including a grand piano by Ludwig Bösendorfer and a table piano by Ernst Rosenkranz, is another highlight for music enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Robert Schumann House in Zwickau is more than just a museum; it's a celebration of the life and work of one of the most important figures in classical music. Its rich history, extensive collection, and beautifully preserved building make it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Zwickau. So, step inside and let the echoes of Schumann's music transport you back to the Romantic era.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
