Schubert owned a guitar by the famous luthier Johann Georg Stauffer, who also created the arpeggione, a hybrid instrument for which Schubert wrote a famous sonata.
Cultural Impact
A manuscript by Franz von Schlechta, a member of Schubert's inner circle and amateur guitarist, contains 39 copied lieder, 19 of which were likely arranged by him.
Composition History
Despite owning a guitar, Schubert wrote only two works specifically for it: a cantata for three male voices and guitar, and an early version of Das Dörfchen for four male voices and guitar.
Historical Context
During Schubert's lifetime, 34 of his lieder were published with guitar accompaniment, illustrating the guitar's central role in Viennese musical practice.
Historical Context
Publishers often created guitar arrangements of Schubert's lieder, sometimes by guitarists like Diabelli, or by commissioning adaptations from instrument connoisseurs.
Compositional Technique
Schubert's lieder often feature guitar-specific gestures, such as simple or circular arpeggios and alternating bass and chords, reflecting the instrument's popularity in Vienna.
Interpretation
The tone of a historic guitar is very similar to that of a pianoforte, making it a suitable accompaniment for Schubert's lieder and reflecting Viennese musical life.
