Description
Written in 1828, the final year of Schubert's life, this single-movement fugue shows the songful composer engaging seriously with strict counterpoint. Multiple voices weave together in a tightly argued texture quite different from his better-known lyrical piano writing. At around four minutes, it is compact but requires clear voice-leading, making it an accessible entry point into contrapuntal playing for intermediate pianists.
Contrapuntal works influenced by Bach, where each composer's individuality shines through a strict formal structure.
About the Composer
Franz Schubert (1797-1828)
Franz Schubert was a Vienna-born composer who died at only 31 but left behind a vast body of work, especially in the field of Lieder. Known for his gift for melody and subtle modulation, songs such as "Erlkonig" remain widely performed today. His piano works, including the Impromptus, are equally rich in lyricism. This site includes 120 of his works, such as Impromptus, "Erlkonig," and the "Hungarian Melody."
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