Schubert's interest in Wilhelm Müller's poems for Winterreise was partly influenced by the Greek War of Independence, a cause enthusiastically supported by liberal youth.
Critical Reception
When Schubert first performed Winterreise for his friends, they were 'completely abashed by the gloomy atmosphere of these songs'.
Composition History
Schubert initially presented the first twelve songs of Winterreise to his friends as a 'cycle of terrifying songs' in early 1827.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Schubert himself preferred Winterreise over all his other songs, stating, 'I like these songs more than all the others, and you will like them too.'
Composition History
Schubert composed Winterreise in two stages because he was initially unaware of the complete set of twenty-four poems by Wilhelm Müller.
Composer Biography
Wilhelm Müller, the poet of Winterreise, died in September 1827 without knowing the worldwide fame Schubert's musical setting would bring to his verses.
Critical Reception
After Schubert's sudden death in November 1828, Winterreise was interpreted as the legacy of a prematurely deceased artist.
