Franz Schubert

classical music · composer · austria · romantic era

Amazingly prolific. Schubert wrote more than 1,000 compositions in his short lifetime, including over 600 songs. That means he was creating music constantly, almost like his imagination never stopped.

Unforgettable melodies. Some of his most famous pieces include the hauntingly beautiful song "Erlkönig," the peaceful "Ave Maria," and the cheerful Trout Quintet that features a dance-like melody inspired by a fish.

Master of many forms. Schubert didn't just write songs, he also created symphonies, string quartets, operas, and piano works. He could write in almost any musical style and make it sound wonderful.

Big impact, short life. He died at age 31 and never heard many of his greatest works performed. Yet his music is still loved by millions of people around the world today.

Stories set to music. Schubert loved writing song cycles, which are groups of songs that tell a story together, like a musical adventure that unfolds across many pieces.