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University of Denver

Schubert: The Musical Poet Sonata D 959 and Its Pianistic Challenges

Abstract

dc:description.abstract

<p>Schubert composed the last three piano sonatas in September of 1828, and these works represent the peak of the composer's achievement in the sonata genre. Schubert's distinctive style lies in his compositional voice, which originated in his <em>lieder</em>, but projected equally well to the medium of piano and other instrumental works.</p> <p>Some research on pianistic challenges and my own experience playing the sonata have been applied to better understand and experience the depth of Schubert's music on a fuller scale. I have found that the particular challenge of the A Major Sonata in D 959 is the extended length of the sonata (40 minutes long) - which Schubert achieved by introducing new harmonic and thematic material, creative accompaniments, rich orchestral textures, and expressive musical devices. To address these challenges, I implemented specific practice and learning approaches, including detailed technique exercises, analysis of the score, thoughtful practice and active listening. The journey of playing and studying Schubert's music has been a deeply rewarding experience, which I will apply towards my piano teaching career.</p>

Degree

thesis:*
Name thesis:degree_name
M.M.
Level thesis:degree_level
Masters Thesis
Year dc:date.available
2016

Author and committee

dc:creator, dc:contributor.*
Author dc:creator
  • Gardner, Natalia
Contributors dc:contributor
  • Steven Mayer, Ph.D.
  • Chee-Hwa Tan
  • John Sheinbaum
  • Gregory Robbins

Subjects

dc:subject × 7

Rights

dc:rights
Statement dc:rights
  • <p>Copyright is held by the author. User is responsible for all copyright compliance.</p>
Language dc:language
en

Identifiers

dc:identifier.*
Repository record dc:identifier
https://digitalcommons.du.edu/etd/1174
OAI identifier oai:identifier
oai:digitalcommons.du.edu:etd-2174

Chain of custody

source
Harvested from
University of Denver
Base URL
digitalcommons.du.edu/do/oai/
Last updated
2026-07-24
Source record
OAI-PMH GetRecord
citation

Gardner, Natalia. Schubert: The Musical Poet Sonata D 959 and Its Pianistic Challenges. Masters Thesis thesis, 2016. https://digitalcommons.du.edu/etd/1174