The day before their wedding, Robert Schumann gave Clara Wieck a gift of songs and a bouquet of myrtle. He also gave her a book of recipes along with a note: “For my housekeeper.” These two wedding gifts are an illustration of the conjugal life awaiting Clara, as Robert’s depressive state quickly forced her to take over the family finances thanks to her skill as a concertist.

Tara Erraught and Stephan Loges debut at the Festival with a programme that recalls the couple’s special relationship and also includes “Gedichte aus Liebesfrühling”, written for four hands.