Liebeslied - Widmung

Robert Schumann wrote and dedicated his set of Lieder called Myrthen, Op. 25, to his beloved Clara Wieck as a gift for their wedding following a prolonged battle of opposition and disapproval of her father. The cycle presents diverse subjects of romantic love, anguish, and rejoicing. The opening song Widmung, set by the poet Friedrich Rückert, translates “Dedication.” The Lied was later arranged for piano solo by Franz Liszt where heartfelt emotions, intimacy, and passion evolve into a powerful climax. The feelings of uncertainty, fear of separation, an unforeseen future, and grief are removed by the power of love guiding the music to a place of repose, serenity, and peace. The only path to reach personal growth through the search of one’s better self is through pure love. Liszt used the title “Liebeslied” in the first edition of the piece (1848), hence in the present day the song is known under two different titles.