The Musical Success of Franz Schubert

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On January 31, 1797, Franz Schubert was born in Himmelpfortgrund, Austria. He was the fourth surviving son of Franz Theodor and Elisabeth Schubert. His musical gift was demonstrated ever since his youth. His family’s love of music influenced Schubert from early on. As a child, he already had the ability to play the “piano, organ, and violin.” (Thompson) He also had excellent talent as a singer. And because of his father’s occupation as a schoolmaster, he was able to receive a comprehensive musical education.

In 1808, Schubert enrolled at the Stadtkonvikt, a school that trained young vocalists for church and court, with a scholarship that gave him a spot at the court’s chapel choir. At the school, he was taught by Wenzel Ruzicka, the imperial court organist, and Antonio Salieri, highly esteemed composer who venerated Schubert’s talents in music. Salieri adored Schubert and his skills as a musician that he is known to have said, “He knows everything already, he said; he has been taught by God.” (Wechsberg) Then, in 1812, Schubert’s voice broke, which resulted in his forced leave...

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