An exploration of Franz Schubert's Sonata in G Major, D. 894: compositional significance, technical challenges, and musical interpretation

This dissertation lecture recital was on Franz Schubert’s G Major Sonata, D. 894. During this dissertation lecture recital, I explored the question: what makes a highly expressive musical experience? I then provided historic background on Schubert’s life and looked at the compositional significance of his G major sonata. Finally, I gave insight on the technical and interpretive challenges that pianists face when studying this work. Throughout this last section, I highlighted specific key changes, harmonic progressions, and texture changes that I believe are important to the musical journey. Once the lecture portion concluded, I performed Schubert’s G Major Piano Sonata, D. 894.