This superlative disc is the first in a series that includes all the vocal music of Robert Schumann for voice and piano. It contains a majority of Lieder from the alter years of the composer’s life. As we have come to expect from Graham Johnson, the CD comes with comprehensive notes on the songs, along with biographical sketches of the many poets set by Schumann. Christine Schäfer’s singing is faultless.

Most of the music on this album is also available as part of the specially priced box set Schumann: The Complete Songs: 'A landmark issue no serious collector should be without' (The Mail on Sunday).