We have a collection of 2 arrangements for Franz Schubert - Impromptu in A-flat major, D.899/Op.90 No.4
What makes Schubert's Impromptus a cornerstone of Romantic piano literature? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Franz Schubert: The Prolific Master of Romantic Melody
Franz Schubert's Impromptus, Op. 90, D. 899, are a set of four solo piano pieces composed in 1827, just a few months before his death. Here are some interesting facts about these Impromptus:
Composition Period: Schubert composed the Impromptus in 1827, during the final year of his life. Despite facing serious health issues, including syphilis, Schubert continued to compose prolifically.
Original Title: The title "Impromptus" suggests that these pieces were intended to sound improvisational, as if created spontaneously. However, despite the title, Schubert meticulously crafted and revised these works.
Numbering: The Impromptus are often referred to by their Deutsch catalogue number, D. 899. Each of the four pieces is assigned its own opus number (Op. 90). They are individually labeled as Impromptu No. 1 in C minor, Impromptu No. 2 in E-flat major, Impromptu No. 3 in G-flat major, and Impromptu No. 4 in A-flat major.
Unusual Form of the Third Impromptu: The third Impromptu is notable for its unique ternary form. It has a central section in the key of C-flat major, which is enharmonically equivalent to B major. This choice of key is quite rare in the Classical and Romantic periods.
Variety of Moods: The Impromptus showcase a wide range of moods and emotions. The first impromptu is dramatic and stormy, the second is lyrical and elegant, the third is melancholic, and the fourth is joyful and playful. This diversity of character within a single collection is a testament to Schubert's mastery of expression.
Posthumous Publication: Like many of Schubert's compositions, the Impromptus were not published during his lifetime. They were first published posthumously in 1857, thirty years after his death. This delayed recognition contributed to Schubert's posthumous rise to prominence as a composer.
Popular Performances: The Impromptus are among Schubert's most frequently performed piano works. Pianists appreciate the expressive depth, lyricism, and technical challenges presented in these pieces.
Influence on Later Composers: Schubert's Impromptus have influenced later composers, including Johannes Brahms and Sergei Rachmaninoff. Brahms, in particular, admired Schubert's ability to create profound emotional depth within relatively short piano pieces.
Musical Innovations: Schubert's harmonic language and use of modulation in the Impromptus were considered innovative for his time. His ability to create beautiful and memorable melodies within a harmonic framework contributed to his lasting impact on the Romantic era.
The Impromptus, Op. 90, D. 899, stand as a testament to Franz Schubert's genius and his ability to convey a rich tapestry of emotions through his music.