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.
Schubert — Impromptus No. 2 in A-flat major, D 935, Op. 142 — Performed by Akira Imai
When it comes to Schubert’s piano works, many people might think of the Four Impromptus, D 935, Op.
142.
Compared to music like jazz, where improvisation is essentially the core of the art, classical music is often associated with playing exactly what’s written on the score—so for those unfamiliar, the term “impromptu” might come as a surprise.
True to the title, these pieces were composed in Schubert’s later years with a free, unconfined spirit, yet they are often regarded as a de facto piano sonata, and nowadays the four are frequently performed together as a single work.
Technically, they require an upper-intermediate to advanced level of skill, but among the set, No.
2 is relatively less difficult compared to the other three.
If you’re eager to try playing Schubert’s impromptus, starting with No.
2 could be a good choice.
It has a minuet-like character; practice repeatedly so you can firmly feel the 3/4 meter and gracefully execute the light, flowing triplet arpeggios in the middle section.
‘Singing on the Water’ Auf dem Wasser zu singen D774 Franz Schubert
This is a song composed by Schubert in 1823, when he was 26 years old.
He set to music a poem by Count Stolberg, an aristocrat who was also a poet.
The lyrics, which overlay an evening boat outing with reflections on human life buffeted by fate and the melancholy hidden within the fleeting happiness of life, are carried along by a beautiful, flowing melody.
Four Impromptus, Op. 142, D. 935 No. 1 in F minorFranz Schubert
Schubert: Impromptus No. 1 in F minor, D 935, Op. 142 / Performed by Akira Imai
Schubert’s late solo piano work, Four Impromptus Op.
142.
No.
1 is cast in sonata form without a development section.
The opening, in a minor key and beginning with a sudden descending figure, conveys the piece’s unease and darkness.
However, the middle section modulates to the major and drastically changes the mood, creating a dreamlike atmosphere as if a single ray of light were pouring into the darkness.
The anxious main theme from the opening then returns, and the piece ultimately sinks back into sadness, yet overall it remains a calm and beautiful work.
Franz Schubert, the king of song, left behind more than 600 lieder.
This work is a serene song based on a poem by Goethe, depicting the stillness of mountain peaks, trees, and little birds, and is regarded as symbolizing peace in life and the quiet after death.
Schubert’s delicate music beautifully expresses the poem’s inner tranquility.
Composed in 1822 and published in 1827, the piece has continued to be loved by many for its beauty and simplicity.
It’s recommended not only for those interested in classical music but also for anyone seeking calm and peace of mind.
Mass No. 6 in E-flat major, D 950, No. 6 “Agnus Dei”Franz Schubert
Schubert: Mass No. 6 in E-Flat Major, D. 950: VI. Agnus Dei: d. Dona nobis pacem (Live)
Schubert’s Mass No.
6, completed in the year of his death by composer Franz Schubert, who was active in early 19th-century Vienna, includes the movement Agnus Dei.
Its progression—from a dark tonality gradually toward brightness—conveys an atmosphere that seems to reflect the composer’s state of mind as he faced death.
Schubert’s uniquely beautiful melodies intertwine with the prayerful words pleading for God’s mercy, and the work’s profound spirituality and musical beauty stand out.
It is a highly recommended piece not only for those familiar with classical music, but also for anyone seeking music that resonates deeply with the heart.
Composed between 1814 and 1815, when Schubert was 17 to 18 years old.
Though it shows some instability, it is a work that demonstrates Schubert’s prodigious talent in completing such a piece as a teenager, and it conveys a youthful brilliance and a sense of hope for the future.
It consists of four movements, all written in a major key.
As it is still an early symphony, there are many passages reminiscent of Haydn; nevertheless, Schubert’s individuality is beginning to emerge, and it is said that the Allegretto of the second movement uses the 14th-century German folk song “Maria’s Lullaby” as its theme.
