Franz Peter Schubert (January 31, 1797 – November 19, 1828) is an Austrian composer.

In a short lifespan of just 31 years, Schubert is a prolific composer, writing some 600 Lieder, nine symphonies (including the famous "Unfinished Symphony"), liturgical music, operas, some incidental music, and a large body of chamber and solo piano music.

Appreciation of Schubert's music during his lifetime is limited, but interest in his work increases significantly in the decades following his death.

Franz Liszt, Robert Schumann, Johannes Brahms and Felix Mendelssohn, among others, discover and champion his works in the 19th century.

Today, Schubert is seen as one of the leading exponents of the early Romantic era in music and he remains one of the most frequently performed composers.