Who really understands today the symbols and metaphors of the romantic poets? Who realizes, for example, that the nightingale in the texts of Robert Schumann’s songs represents not love but in fact is the symbol of longing for transcendence – or death?

Who could have imagined, just a few years ago, the possibilities modern technology is providing for the communication of human beings over vast distances and for intercultural exchange of ideas and information?

Who can even begin to count the numbers of aspiring young artists who, for one reason or another, don’t receive the support and intellectual challenge they deserve?

The Hampsong Foundation is committed to fostering knowledge and encourage research in the fields of music, poetry and song, to make this knowledge publicly available through its multimedia, interactive website and other publications, and to support the education and training of young singers and other musicians.