Now in its ninth season, the Florestan Recital Project has emerged as a premier presenter of song recitals in North America. Florestan was founded in 2001 to promote song repertoire in concerts, masterclasses, and educational residencies. By combining a roster of outstanding artists with dedicated research and programming, Florestan delights audiences with a wide range of both established and unfamiliar repertoire. Florestan's continually expanding roster of artists includes singers and pianists who regularly perform with leading opera companies, orchestras, and music festivals around the world.
Florestan Recital Project takes its name from the fiery character of Florestan, one of the creative alter egos of composer Robert Schumann (1810-1856). In addition to composing approximately 150 songs that are cornerstones of the genre, Schumann left an immense legacy of music and writings, and he invented the revolutionary character of Florestan as a voice for many of his most impetuous and passionate works. Florestan’s aim is to manifest that same passion in its devotion to exploring the full spectrum of song repertoire, drawing from a wealth of old and new music to create timely and exciting programs for audiences.