Franz Schubert was born on January 31, 1797, in Vienna, Austria. He was the 12th child of a schoolteacher and his wife. Schubert showed early musical talent and began playing the piano and violin as a child. He also sang in the choir at his local church.

Schubert composed over 600 works in his short life, including nine symphonies, over 600 songs, chamber music, and piano music. He is often considered one of the greatest composers of the Romantic era, alongside Beethoven and Mozart.

In teaching students about Schubert, it is important to highlight his unique style and contributions to music. Introduce some of his most famous works, such as his “Unfinished Symphony” and “Ave Maria,” and discuss how his music reflected the Romantic focus on emotion and individual expression.

You can also explore Schubert’s life and influences, such as his friendship with the poet Johann Mayrhofer and his admiration for Beethoven’s work. Encourage students to listen to and analyze Schubert’s music, discussing its structure, melody, and emotional impact.

Overall, teaching students about Schubert can provide a window into the world of Romantic music and inspire a lifelong appreciation for classical composers.