The better pieces, however, most of which appear on the first two CDs, remind us of just how expert Schumann was as a song melodist and of his none-too-shabby skill at both dramatic text-setting and novelty effects, whether achieved with just voices ("Frühlingsglocken") or with colorful, gently assertive percussion ("Zigeunerleben"). The excellent chorus obliges throughout with unfailing energy and a true sense of commitment, no matter how slight or minimally-inspired the piece may be. Clara's three songs are very well-crafted and affecting, particularly the substantial and serious "Abendfeier in Venedig" and "Goldoliera". It's a pity that she didn't contribute more in this genre.

The performances, especially considering the nearly 100 different works involved and the range of recording dates (1996-2001), are remarkably consistent in technical/intrepretive standards and in sound quality, although there are moments where soprano intonation is not spot on and in some places solo voices seem a bit too close relative to the ensemble. But these are minor quibbles against what overall is a valuable compendium that will provide hours of enjoyment for fans of Romantic German choral music, at least some of it undeserving of its virtual neglect during the past century. And at the rock-bottom Brilliant Records price, it's a set easily and happily explored. You should know, however, that texts unfortunately are only in German, which may help keep costs lower but also diminishes non-German speakers' full enjoyment and appreciation.