Schumann, Robert.

notated in brown ink on eight systems, each of two staves, with title and metronome marking, with phrasing, dynamics and pedal indications



2 pages, oblong 8vo, in generally good condition, edges a little frayed, no place or date [probably 1839]

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This would appear to be a new and hitherto unrecorded source for Schumann's ``Fughette'' Op.32 no.4. It is not listed by McCorkle.

It was written probably in 1839 and published in the following year in a collection Sammlung von Musikstücken alter und neuen Zeit, and with its three companion pieces in 1841, with a dedication to one of Clara Schumann's pupils Amalie Rieffel.

The work is charming and harmonically complex. The title is slightly misleading: it is an imitative rather than fugal work, and there is no effort to construct anything like a formal exposition. It is dominated by several appearances of the melancholy theme decked out with eloquent and apt harmonies and explores a tonal range which poses questions as to which key the work is in, G minor or C minor and whether it ends on the tonic of G major or the dominant of C minor. Altogether an intriguing movement.