Prisma

Robert Schumann had close ties to Cologne. Although his Symphony No. 3, the »Rhenish«, exults in euphoria and optimism about the future, given his liberating new beginning in Düsseldorf, Symphony No. 2, five years its senior, takes us into another atmosphere altogether: the composition was written at a time when Schumann’s mental illness began to clearly manifest itself. The Second is a work of contemplation, rather muted colours, restrained gestures – and yet a breath-taking demonstration of energy, hope and lust for life.

Enno Poppe’s »Kuss« is the finale and farewell to the project »Fanfares for a new Beginning«.