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: Gem-like classical works left by the King of Song. Recommended classical music (11–20)
Piano Quintet in A major, Op. 114, D 667 “The Trout” – II. AndanteFranz Schubert
A masterpiece of chamber music woven from graceful melodies and deep emotion.
It begins with a gentle introduction, and the beautiful dialogue between piano and strings resonates with the heart.
In 1819, Franz Schubert, in his early twenties, crafted this music for a friend, suffused with the rich expressiveness and intimate atmosphere characteristic of the Romantic era.
In this work, the harmonies created by each instrument yield delicate nuances that envelop the listener in quiet awe.
The balance between piano and strings is exquisite, offering the comforting sense of overhearing a warm conversation among close friends.
It is highly recommended for those who wish to savor the beauty of classical music or are seeking something to soothe the soul.
Piano Quintet in A major, Op. 114, D 667 “Trout” — III. Scherzo: PrestoFranz Schubert
A heartwarming song that delicately portrays the inner conflicts and emotional fluctuations people carry.
In this new release from SUPER BEAVER, tender vocals and a warm melodic line gently embrace the loneliness and bottled-up feelings that everyone experiences.
It reminds us that tears aren’t a sign of weakness, but rather something important for understanding and accepting ourselves.
Released in January 2025, the song was written as the theme for the NHK General TV drama “Vanilla na Mainichi.” It is used memorably in the show, carrying significant meaning for the story’s protagonist.
This is a comforting piece that stays close to those trying to overcome painful experiences or face their own emotions.
Piano Quintet in A major, Op. 114, D 667 “Trout” — V. Finale: Allegro giustoFranz Schubert
A masterpiece whose beautiful melodies and distinctive instrumentation evoke Austria’s rich pastoral landscapes.
Composed in 1819 when Franz Schubert was just 22, this work features a unique ensemble of piano and four string instruments, marked by a lively rhythm and radiant melodies.
The themes, expressing the beauty and joy of nature, flow with the ease of a crystal-clear stream.
The piano’s brilliant passages blend exquisitely with the strings, as the instruments seem to converse—passing the motifs between them to paint a vivid musical scene.
Its resonant low registers and expansive sonorities leave a profound, heartfelt impression.
Highly recommended for those who wish to savor the splendor of classical music or spend a soothing, restorative moment.
String Quartet No. 13, Op. 29, D 804 “Rosamunde,” Movement IIFranz Schubert
This jewel of chamber music, with its gentle melody in C major, brings profound calm to the listener’s heart.
Composed between February and March of 1824, the work seamlessly unites flowing, beautiful melodies with masterful construction.
Its gently rocking, cradle-like rhythmic repetitions and the rich harmonies woven by each part resonate with the pleasantness of birdsong heralding the arrival of spring.
A masterpiece in which the formal beauty of Classicism and the lyricism of Romanticism are superbly fused, it distills the very essence of Franz Schubert’s musical voice.
It is a piece I highly recommend to anyone wishing to experience the beauty and deep emotion that classical music can offer.
String Quartet No. 13, Op. 29, D. 804 “Rosamunde” – Movement IFranz Schubert
A beautiful chamber work composed in 1824.
Its graceful, lyrical flow of sound invites the listener into a dreamlike world.
In the first movement, a melancholic melody unfolds quietly, suffused with an introspective atmosphere, until a hopeful second theme eventually appears.
At its premiere by the Schuppanzigh String Quartet, the third movement won such ardent support from the audience that it was encored.
The worldview woven by its rich harmonic progressions and transparent sonorities penetrates deep into the heart.
A gem I highly recommend to those who appreciate literary scene-painting and are drawn to delicate emotional expression.
Erlkönig (arranged by Hector Berlioz)Franz Schubert
The sound of a horse’s hooves racing through the darkness of a deep forest is vividly portrayed by the orchestra’s powerful resonance.
The son’s anxious cries, the father’s desperate encouragement, and the eerie, seductive whispers of the Erlking are all masterfully expressed through the orchestra’s varied timbres, stirring the listener’s heart.
In the arrangement crafted by Berlioz around 1860, the flute voices the Erlking’s honeyed enticements, while the strings generate the sensation of a galloping horse, further heightening the tension inherent in the original.
With its universal themes of parental love and the inevitability of death, this work—through its dramatic development and rich musical expression—is highly recommended for those seeking narrative-driven music or wishing to savor the full allure of orchestral sound.
Masu Op. 32 D550Franz Schubert
‘Die Forelle’ (The Trout), composed by Austrian composer Schubert around the age of 20, is one of his most popular German lieder.
While the brisk piano and refreshing melody are striking, the lyrics tell a somewhat cruel story: as the narrator pleasantly watches trout dart about in a clear, bright stream, a crafty fisherman uses underhanded means to catch them.
This tale serves as a metaphorical warning to beware of men who deceive women.
Schubert also used this melody as the basis for his Piano Quintet, which shows how deeply attached he was to it.
Piano Quintet “The Trout,” Movement 4Franz Schubert
This refreshing masterpiece of chamber music was composed in the summer of 1819 by Franz Schubert, known as the King of Song.
It is based on a song that depicts fish darting across the river’s surface on the piano, and unfolds in the form of variations.
The conversation woven by five instruments, including the double bass, is bright and full of happiness, sure to lift the listener’s spirits.
The work was published posthumously in 1829.
Thanks to its familiarity, it has been used as background music in many films and videos.
It’s recommended for starting a fresh morning or for working in a relaxed mood.
Its pleasant rhythm will naturally help boost your efficiency in studying or desk work.
Die Forelle (arranged by Franz Liszt)Franz Schubert
This piece is a piano solo arrangement of a song by Franz Schubert, made by Franz Liszt.
Through the story of a trout swimming in a clear stream and the fisherman who aims to catch it, it conveys a lesson about life.
Liszt adds brilliant, piano-specific virtuosity without diminishing the original’s beauty.
Arpeggios and ornaments that evoke the flow of the river and the movements of the trout are used effectively, rendering visual scenes through sound.
It is recommended for those interested in the beauty of nature and the morals of human society, as well as for listeners who enjoy technically dazzling piano performances.
String Quartet No. 13, Op. 29, D. 804 “Rosamunde,” Movement IIIFranz Schubert
Composed during the transitional period from the Classical to the Romantic era, this masterpiece opens with an elegant exchange of melodies between the first violin and the cello.
Rooted in a graceful dance style, the work interweaves introspective and delicate emotional expression, earning such acclaim at its March 1824 premiere that an encore was requested.
The contrast between the minuet and trio is vividly rendered, blending bright, tranquil melodies with a touch of melancholy in exquisite balance.
Among Franz Schubert’s chamber works, it stands out as a masterpiece distinguished by particularly beautiful melodies and profound emotional depth.
It is an ideal piece for those who wish to savor both the elegance of classical music and the lyricism of the Romantic era.