The Novelletten, Op. 21, is a set of eight pieces for solo piano, written by Robert Schumann in 1838. This composition is dedicated to Adolf von Henselt.

Background

The Novelletten were composed during February 1838, a period of great struggle for the composer. Schumann originally intended the eight pieces to be performed together as a group, though they are often performed separately. This set of pieces is an excellent example of Schumann's keyboard style.

Analysis

No. 1 in F major

This piece contains seven sections, alternating between a staccato march and flowing legato passages. The piece is a modified Rondo form.

No. 2 in D major

This virtuosic piece is graceful and effective. An Intermezzo section in the middle contrasts and varies the piece.

No. 3 in D major

This piece displays the composer's sense of humour through the use of rapid staccato chords. An Intermezzo section in the middle of the piece is used to contrast.

No. 4 in D major

This piece is quite loosely organized in terms of structure; it is an interesting waltz that uses cross-rhythms and syncopation effectively.

No. 5 in D major

This piece is in the form of a polonaise; its principal section contains three main ideas which are then overcome by the persistent rhythms of the Trio section.

No. 6 in A major

This piece uses an increasing tempo to characterize the progression of sections. Starting from the staccato opening, each of the following passages are marked a few metronome beats faster until the coda, which returns to the original tempo.

No. 7 in E major

This piece features a beautiful and lyrical middle section; it also features many virtuosic passages containing fast, brilliant octaves.

No. 8 in F♯ minor

The concluding piece of the set is actually two pieces in one. The first part is a passionate étude in 2/4, the second has the nature of a march. It ends in D major, the principal key of the cycle.