The great Franz Schubert, at 5’1”, literally and figuratively lived in the shadow of the Titan, Ludwig van Beethoven. Most of his music was never performed in public, although much of it became known and loved in intimate gatherings with friends called “Schubertiades.” His large-scale works, such as symphonies, piano sonatas, and chamber music, only became known much later in the 19th century, thanks to champions such as Franz Liszt and Johannes Brahms.

Schubert is justly revered for virtually inventing the German “Lied” (song), of which he wrote over 600, and which were greatly admired in contemporary Vienna. His song cycles “Die schöne Müllerin” (The beautiful miller-maid) and “Winterreise” (Winter’s journey) remain among the most immortal creations of German romanticism. The four Impromptus on this recording (literally, spontaneous creations) reflect this mastery of small forms, as well as his lyrical genius.

Despite his small physical stature, Schubert had a volatile temperament, seen in the turbulent middle section of each Impromptu. No. 1 in C minor has a march-like rhythm that suggests a soldier’s exhausted journey, with memories of a peaceful past and violent battles. No. 2 features swirling passagework, with modulations (E-flat major to B minor) that create anguished contrasts. No. 3, a benediction in the lofty key of G-flat major, hints at dark undercurrents in the relative key, E-flat minor. Finally, No. 4 has more arching arpeggios surrounding aching lyricism in the central section. Cumulatively, this inspired set has remained a cherished part of the pianist’s repertoire. works are available on all streaming platforms.