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: Exquisite Classical Works Left by the King of Song. Recommended Classical Music (131–140)
Arpeggione Sonata in A minor, D 821Franz Schubert
Composed in 1824 and published posthumously in 1871.
The arpeggione is a six‑string instrument, sometimes called a “guitar cello,” that combines features of both the guitar and the cello.
It is said that by the time this piece was published, the instrument had already fallen into obscurity.
Although the arpeggione has since been reconstructed, it is now customary to perform the work on instruments such as the cello or viola.
Despite its many drawbacks, this piece has not faded away; it continues to be performed today, brimming with a mysterious charm.
Symphony No. 7 “Unfinished Symphony”Franz Schubert
This work was composed in 1822 when Schubert was 25 years old.
The score was discovered several years after his death and received its premiere in 1865.
Schubert wrote the piece as a token of gratitude after being recommended as an honorary member of the Music Society.
Because the completed manuscript extends only to the second movement, it is known as the “Unfinished Symphony.” Many people have offered various speculations as to why it remained incomplete.
Winter Journey, Op. 89, D. 911, No. 1: ‘Good Night’Franz Schubert
Composed in 1827, it is a song cycle for voice with piano accompaniment.
It sets poems by the German poet Wilhelm Müller and comprises 24 songs in total across Parts 1 and 2.
The fifth song, “Lindenbaum” (“Der Lindenbaum”), is particularly famous.
In addition, the opening song, “Good Night” (“Gute Nacht”), which can be regarded as an overture of sorts, reflects Schubert’s state of mind at the time—his health had already deteriorated, his life was difficult, and he had begun to be conscious of death.
Cradle Song, Op. 98 No. 2, D. 498Franz Schubert
This is a lullaby composed in 1816 when Schubert was 19 years old and published in 1829.
It is commonly known by the nickname “Schubert’s Lullaby.” It is considered a masterpiece imbued with thoughts of his mother, Maria, who died when Schubert was 15.
The lyricist is unknown, but one theory attributes it to Matthias Claudius, the poet of Schubert’s Death and the Maiden.
Fantasia, Op. 103, D. 940Franz Schubert
It is a fantasia for piano four hands, composed in 1828, the very last year of the composer’s life.
Steeped in melancholy, it is in F minor.
Although it is in a single movement, it can be divided into four sections: the second section, Largo, is in F-sharp minor; the third, Allegro vivace, is also in F-sharp minor; and the fourth, Tempo primo, returns to F minor.
In other words, the entire work is cast in minor keys, giving it a sense of profound depth.
Die schöne Müllerin, Op. 25 D 795 No. 1: “Wandering”Franz Schubert
Franz Schubert, known as the “King of Song,” is renowned for his masterpiece Die schöne Müllerin.
Its first song expresses the adventurous spirit and joy of a young miller.
Composed in 1823, this song cycle is celebrated as a quintessential work of Romantic music.
Written in a lively G major, it features a rhythmic piano accompaniment that evokes the turning of the mill wheel and the flow of water, skillfully portraying the youth’s purity and energy.
It’s a highly recommended piece for those who wish to savor Schubert’s delicate sense of harmony and beautiful melodies.
Song cycle ‘Swan Song’ No. 4 ‘Serenade’Franz Schubert
Franz Schubert’s song collection of German lieder, “Schwanengesang” (Swan Song).
No.
4, “Ständchen” (Serenade), is the most famous piece in the set and is often performed as a solo work for flute or piano.
When the flute is added to the mandolin-like piano accompaniment, the result is an even more elegant and refined atmosphere; if the piano covers all parts, it produces a rich resonance with a strong sense of unity between melody and accompaniment.
Try challenging yourself to see how much of the original’s poignancy you can convey when performing on instruments without lyrics.