Getting To Know You

Getting To Know You Schumann Quartet

Often described as energetic and intense, the Schumann Quartet never fails to wow the audience with their stunning performances. During their 2019 to 2020 season, they performed for audiences in numerous countries. The quartet consists of brothers Mark, Ken and Erik Schumann, along with violist Liisa Randalu. We speak with violinist Ken Schumann to learn more about the quartet, and hear what he has to say about Beethoven in light of the composer’s 250 th birthday!

How would you describe your musical style? Exciting and always with a lot of passion and intensity.

It is Beethoven’s 250 th birthday! What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of him?

Revolution, freedom and the dream that humanity can live in peace together!

What is your favourite Beethoven piece? It is impossible to choose. We love all of his works! At the moment I love to listen to his song cycle, An die ferne Geliebte (To the distant beloved), Op.98.

If you could meet Beethoven in person, what is one thing you would say to him? Maestro, would you play something on the piano for me? I would be honoured to play some chamber music with you!

What has been your most memorable performance to date? At a concert in Italy, our programme contained Anton Webern’s Five Movements for String Quartet. This piece is usually performed more than once during a concert. The second half of the concert was meant to begin with it, followed by a Verdi piece, which starts with my solo on the second violin.

Usually the Webern piece would require a lot of energy and effort, so I was surprised that Liisa and Mark looked rather relaxed. It was only after Erik and I started playing that we realised that Liisa and Mark had forgotten about the Webern piece, and were waiting for my solo in the Verdi piece!

I believe there are a lot of young musicians who look up to the quartet – what is one piece of advice you would like to give to all the budding musicians out there? Stay curious, work hard, and don’t forget to also enjoy your life!

Credits: Kaupo Kikkas