Although Schumann had learnt the cello for a while in his youth, he only began to compose for this instrument in later life. Apart from the cello concerto, only his Five Pieces op. 102 have survived as original works for the cello. Clara was delighted with them: ''These are pieces in folk style with such a freshness and originality that I was enchanted''. The ''Neue Zeitschrift fŘr Musik'' wrote: ''These pieces are less apt for a virtuoso player than a well versed one who can speak on his instrument with tone and meaning.'' Our edition, in the best Urtext quality, is particularly to be recommended for teaching purposes and for making music at home.