Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Germany

Birth

:

March 24, 1739

Death

:

October 10, 1791

Period

:

Classical

 

 

Romantic

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Christian Friedrich Daniel Schubart was a German composer, poet, and music critic who lived during the 18th century. He was born on March 24, 1739, in Obersontheim, a small town in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Schubart was the son of a Lutheran pastor, and he grew up in a musical family. His father was a skilled musician who taught him how to play the organ and the harpsichord. Schubart showed an early talent for music, and he began composing at a young age. He studied music theory and composition with Johann Philipp Kirnberger, a student of Johann Sebastian Bach. Schubart also studied law at the University of Jena, but he left before completing his degree to pursue a career in music. In 1762, Schubart was appointed as the court organist in Ludwigsburg, a city in the state of Baden-Württemberg. He held this position for several years, during which time he composed a number of works for the organ and the harpsichord. In 1768, he moved to Stuttgart, where he became the music director of the court theater. He held this position for several years, during which time he composed a number of operas and other works for the stage. Schubart was also a prolific writer and music critic. He wrote a number of books on music theory and composition, as well as essays and reviews of musical performances. He was known for his sharp wit and his ability to write in a clear and engaging style. One of Schubart's most famous works is his collection of songs, "Die Forelle" (The Trout), which he composed in 1783. The collection includes six songs, each of which is based on a poem by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. The songs are known for their lyrical melodies and their sensitive treatment of the text. Schubart's other notable works include his "Sonatas for Harpsichord," which he composed in the 1760s, and his "Symphony in D Major," which he composed in 1773. The symphony is notable for its use of the horn, which was a relatively new instrument at the time. Despite his many accomplishments, Schubart's life was not without its difficulties. He was known for his outspoken views on politics and religion, and he often found himself in trouble with the authorities. In 1777, he was arrested and imprisoned for his political views, and he spent several years in jail before being released. Schubart's health also suffered in his later years. He suffered from a number of illnesses, including tuberculosis, and he died on March 10, 1791, at the age of 51. Today, Schubart is remembered as one of the most important composers and music critics of the 18th century. His works continue to be performed and studied by musicians and scholars around the world, and his contributions to the development of classical music are widely recognized.

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