The National Arts Centre Orchestra has begun a new project focused on the works and lives of three of the Romantic era’s most intriguing composers.
The new project takes its inspiration from the real-life love triangle between Clara Schumann, her husband Robert, and Johannes Brahms. The first stage of the project, called ‘Darlings of the Muses’, is a recently released double album featuring pianist Gabriela Montero’s rendition of Clara’s concerto as well as the first symphonies by Robert and Johannes. Three more double albums will be released over the next two years as part of the ambitious album cycle. The project is the brainchild of orchestra head Alexander Shelley.
The Orchestra has undertaken the project, simply titled ‘Clara, Robert, Johannes’ with help from music scholars and biographers of the trio. The goal is to capture the interplay between the trio as well as the musicians performing their work.
The Orchestra typically performs operas, ensemble pieces and other classical works throughout the year at the NAC in Ottawa, as well as undergoing recording projects like this one and educational programs. These events are often advertised through flyer printing campaigns. The Orchestra marked its 50th anniversary in 2019.
The first installment of Clara, Robert, Johannes was released on May 8 through the recording label Analekta, with three more albums to come.
