Fantasiestücke, Op. 12

Robert Schumann

Op. 12

Recordings

Top Choice

Martha Argerich

1976

Gil's top recommendation (coupled with the Fantasie in C). She 'does a wonderful job of shifting the moods back and forth,' bringing 'plenty of bravura and virtuosity' to the 'going crazy parts' and 'beauty of tone and nuance' to the soft sections.

Also Worth Hearing

Arthur Rubinstein

1949

A 'strong version' (coupled with Carnaval). Rubinstein 'also does a wonderful job of shifting the moods from the energetic to the more relaxed.' The virtuosity is 'really strong' and it's 'fairly well recorded for 1949.'

Sviatoslav Richter

1956

Only includes six of the eight pieces, but 'still one that you're going to want to hear' for Richter's 'virtuosity and his intelligence and our artistry.' 'Fairly good sound.'

Benno Moiseiwitsch

1952

Recommended for Moiseiwitsch's 'spontaneity, his imagination,' 'romantic spirit,' and 'effortless virtuosity.' 'Wonderful job... of shifting the moods.' Sound is 'not the best recording quality.'