Overture, Scherzo and Finale in E major Op. 52

Instrumentation: 2.2.2.2 – 2.2.3.0 – timp – str

That Schumann truly dug his heels into symphonic creation becomes clear at the latest when we look not only at his four well-known symphonies, but also at the works between the genres, such as the Overture, Scherzo and Finale. Unlike the traditional symphonic form, this work has no slow movement. Schumann spoke of it as a suite which hints at a loose connection of movements and as a sinfonietta. Ultimately, he decided to name it after the headings of the three movements which also share common traits among one another. Overture, Scherzo and Finale is being published here for the first time with an Urtext score and parts.

The genesis of the work was marked by corrections and revisions. Schumann subjected the work to a thorough revision after the premiere performance and, after the publication of the orchestral parts in 1846, made more changes for the first edition of the score seven years later.