Masterpieces by Franz Schubert: Sparkling classical works left by the King of Song. Recommended classical music.
Franz Schubert, the Austrian composer hailed as the “King of Song” for leaving behind more than 600 lieder, including masterpieces such as Erlkönig and Ave Maria.
Schubert is known not only for his many celebrated songs, but also for his wide-ranging output in solo piano works, symphonies, and chamber music.
In this article, we’ve handpicked Schubert’s most popular pieces as well as hidden gems beloved by devoted classical-music aficionados.
We present a selection of sparkling works infused with the spirit of a musician who composed throughout his life.
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Franz Schubert’s Masterpieces: Sparkling Classical Works Left by the King of Song. Recommended Classical Music (121–130)
Wiegenlied Schubert’s LullabyFranz Schubert
The original lyrics are in German, but in Japan it’s sung with Japanese lyrics.
The title alone might not ring a bell, but you’ll recognize it as soon as you see the words.
From long ago to the present, it’s surely a lullaby many babies have listened to in their cradles.
Unfinished SymphonyFranz Schubert
Composed in 1822, this is one of Schubert’s most representative works.
The first and second movements were completed, and it is performed in that form.
Schubert stopped composing partway through the third movement, but in fact he is known for abandoning many works in a similar unfinished state.
The performance is by the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra conducted by Leonard Bernstein.
polite verb suffix (masu); used to make verbs polite in JapaneseFranz Schubert
It’s a piece that conjures an image of musical notes popping cheerfully out of a piano.
The elegant, beautiful melody is gentle on the ears.
The occasional rises and falls still sound very refined thanks to the steady tempo.
For someone with a vivid imagination, it might evoke the social scene of old European aristocracy—gracefully dressed women waltzing with elegance.
Impromptu No. 3, Op. 90-3Franz Schubert
Franz Schubert’s masterpiece, Impromptu No.
3, Op.
90-3.
Marked Andante, in G-flat major, and in 4/2 time, it is known for its somewhat unconventional character, as these details suggest.
Above all, the piece’s appeal lies in its remarkably long-breathed, rich melody woven from continuous sextuplets.
It may not be flashy, but it possesses a captivating allure.
As a work that could be called a “song without words,” I encourage you to listen while letting your own feelings ride along with the melody.
Franz Schubert’s Masterpieces: Exquisite Classical Works Left by the King of Song. Recommended Classical Music (131–140)
Impromptu No. 3Franz Schubert
Composed by Schubert in 1827, this solo piano work consists of four impromptus.
Because many of the pieces are easier to play than his other works, they are often used as learning material.
The third piece has a very calm character.
Within its tranquil mood, it vividly expresses Schubert’s signature qualities: the inescapable absurdity of the human world and the depiction of the ‘beauty of solitude.’
Fantasia in F minorFranz Schubert
An emotionally moving piece that touches the strings of the heart.
It evokes a night sky scattered with stars, as if you’re drifting within that world.
True to a fantasia, it conjures an unseen realm and leaves you with a slightly mysterious feeling.
The middle section fills with sadness, drawing you in.
Perfect for when you want to step away from reality and immerse yourself in a world of imagination.
It will carry you into a wondrous space.
Symphony No. 8 in C majorFranz Schubert
Composed in 1825–26, this is a four-movement symphony.
In Schubert’s case, many works remain unfinished, and depending on whether those are counted, this work is sometimes designated as Symphony No.
9.
It is commonly known as “The Great,” a name that reflects its larger scale compared to the Symphony No.
6, which is also in C major.
Although it begins quietly with just two horns in unison, the piece as a whole unfolds on a grand, expansive scale.
The performance is by the Vienna Philharmonic conducted by Wolfgang Sawallisch.