Franz Schubert

Definition

Franz Schubert was an influential Austrian composer of the late Classical and early Romantic eras, known for his prolific output of lieder (songs) and symphonies. His music is characterized by its emotional depth and lyrical melodies, which exemplify the ideals of Romanticism, emphasizing personal expression and the exploration of human feelings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Schubert composed over 600 lieder, making him one of the most important figures in the genre, with famous songs like 'Ave Maria' and 'Gretchen am Spinnrade.'
2. His 'Unfinished Symphony' is renowned for its haunting beauty and remains one of his most celebrated works, despite being incomplete with only two movements.
3. Schubert's music often reflects the themes of love, nature, and longing, which are central to Romantic ideals.
4. He had a close relationship with the poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, whose works inspired many of Schubert's lieder.
5. Schubert's influence extended beyond his lifetime, impacting later composers such as Robert Schumann and Johannes Brahms, who admired his melodic gift and emotional expressiveness.

Review Questions

• How did Schubert's use of melody in his lieder reflect the ideals of Romanticism?
  • Schubert's lieder are marked by their expressive melodies that convey deep emotions, aligning perfectly with the Romantic ideal of personal expression. He often paired poignant lyrics with innovative musical settings that highlighted the emotional weight of the text. This focus on melody not only showcases his talent as a composer but also emphasizes the Romantic fascination with individual feelings and experiences.
• In what ways did Schubert's symphonic works contribute to the development of the symphonic form during the Romantic era?
  • Schubert's symphonic works contributed significantly to the Romantic era by incorporating lyrical themes and emotional depth into traditional symphonic structures. Unlike his Classical predecessors who focused on clarity and balance, Schubert's symphonies often explored complex harmonies and rich orchestrations. This shift not only expanded the expressive range of symphonic music but also set a precedent for future composers to delve deeper into emotional storytelling through orchestral music.
• Evaluate Schubert's legacy within the context of Romantic music and how his innovations paved the way for future generations of composers.
  • Schubert's legacy in Romantic music is profound as he bridged the gap between Classical forms and Romantic expression. His innovations in melody, harmony, and song structure influenced subsequent composers who sought to express their innermost feelings through music. By elevating the lied to an art form and infusing his symphonies with lyrical qualities, Schubert not only enriched the musical landscape of his time but also inspired composers like Mahler and Strauss to explore new emotional depths in their own works.

Related terms

Lied: A German art song, typically for solo voice accompanied by piano, that often expresses deep emotions and is a prominent form in Schubert's works.

Symphony: A large-scale orchestral composition, typically in four movements, which Schubert wrote several notable examples of, including the 'Unfinished Symphony.'

Romanticism:

An artistic and literary movement that emerged in the late 18th century, emphasizing emotion, individualism, and the beauty of nature, greatly influencing Schubert's musical style.