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 Lieder. Recommended Classical Music (41–50)
Four Impromptus, Op. 90 No. 3Franz Schubert
Schubert’s masterpiece, whose limpid tone and delicate expression touch the heart.
Composed in 1827, No.
3 from Four Impromptus, Op.
90, is known as a work from Schubert’s mature period.
Its long melody flows without interruption, evoking a prayer-like serenity.
Within the sonorities produced by a single piano lies Schubert’s rich sensitivity and profound emotion.
The beautifully cleansing melody is perfect for anyone wishing to step away from the bustle of daily life and spend a tranquil moment.
On a long autumn night, why not listen at a leisurely pace?
Masterpieces by Franz Schubert: Sparkling classical works left by the King of Song. Recommended classical music (51–60)
Serenade, No. 4 from SchwanengesangFranz Schubert
A song to listen to when you’re feeling depressed or have hit a wall.
In work, school, family—life confronts us with all kinds of problems.
We have to take steps to solve them, but more than anything our hearts feel squeezed tight.
In the rush, without a moment to catch our breath, we suddenly realize our energy has been drained.
At times like that, the song’s wistful, sorrowful melody gives us a reason to pause and rest.
Thinking things through is necessary.
But for now, why not surrender yourself to the world of this song and find some calm?
Arpeggione Sonata in A minor, D.821Franz Schubert
It is Franz Schubert’s Arpeggione Sonata in A minor, D 821.
The piece was written for the arpeggione, a six-string bowed instrument resembling a smaller cello, invented in 1824 by the Viennese guitar maker Johann Georg Stauffer.
However, by the time it was published in 1871, the arpeggione had fallen out of use, so it came to be performed on instruments such as the cello, viola, and double bass.
Sonatina in A minorFranz Schubert
Schubert is best known for his songs, but he also wrote numerous pieces for the violin.
A sonatina is a work built on sonata form, but with a more concise musical structure than a full sonata.
Even so, despite its concision, the interplay is highly elaborate, giving a sense of quality that can surpass that of a sonata.
Impromptu, Op. 90 No. 4Franz Schubert
An impromptu by Franz Schubert, captivating for its graceful melodies and richly expressive harmonies.
Composed in 1827, this work is renowned as a masterpiece that epitomizes Schubert’s mature period.
It begins with arpeggios, and in the middle section the tonality shifts, drawing listeners into a dreamlike musical journey.
Its delicate yet powerful melody will further enhance the performer’s expressive range.
It’s also a highly recommended piece for those looking to refine their piano technique.
String Quartet No. 14 in D minor, D 810 “Death and the Maiden”, Fourth MovementFranz Schubert
The year before 1824, when Schubert is said to have begun this work, he suffered from ill health, and perhaps as a result, all four movements are written in a minor key, giving the piece a distinctly sorrowful mood.
The work was officially published two and a half years after Schubert’s death.
The urgent, tarantella-like finale is striking for its powerful character, with dramatic melodies woven throughout.
Because the second movement quotes the melody of his famous song “Der Tod und das Mädchen” (Death and the Maiden), this piece is also affectionately known as “Death and the Maiden.”
Piano Sonata No. 21 in B-flat major, D 960 — Movement III: Allegro vivace con delicatezzaFranz Schubert
A masterpiece whose jewel-like melodies set the heart free.
Completed in September 1828, this work is especially captivating in its third movement, where a light touch is paired with delicate structural nuance.
An eight-bar theme is developed with finesse, and through successive modulations the music moves from a bright B-flat major to its parallel key, B-flat minor, leaving a striking impression of richly colored emotion.
The shading of the melody—born of its distinctive rhythmic pulse and harmonic progressions—deeply moves the listener.
Throughout, Franz Schubert’s inventive modulation techniques and masterful handling of rhythm shine.
This piece is highly recommended for those seeking the deeper flavors of classical music, and for anyone captivated by the structural beauty of piano repertoire.