Johann Schobert

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Johann Schobert (ca. 1720 – 28 August 1767) was a composer and harpsichordist of the Classical period. He was born in Silesia, which was then part of the Habsburg Monarchy, and he spent much of his career in Paris.

Life and Career

Schobert's early life is not well-documented, but he is believed to have been born around 1720 in Silesia. He moved to Paris in the early 1760s, where he quickly gained a reputation as a talented composer and harpsichordist. Schobert became associated with the court of Louis XV and was known for his innovative compositions for the harpsichord.

Musical Style and Influence

Schobert's music is characterized by its expressive melodies and intricate keyboard techniques. He composed a variety of works, including sonatas, concertos, and chamber music. His compositions were influential in the development of the Classical style, and he was particularly noted for his contributions to the harpsichord repertoire.

Schobert's music was admired by his contemporaries, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who arranged several of Schobert's sonatas for performance. Schobert's influence can be seen in the early works of Mozart and other composers of the Classical period.

Death

Johann Schobert died on 28 August 1767 in Paris under tragic circumstances. He and several members of his family died after consuming poisonous mushrooms, which they had mistaken for edible ones.

Legacy

Despite his relatively short career, Schobert left a significant mark on the music of his time. His works continue to be performed and recorded, and he is remembered as an important figure in the transition from the Baroque to the Classical period in music.

Selected Works

• Harpsichord Sonatas
• Concertos for Harpsichord and Orchestra
• Chamber Music

See Also

• Classical period (music)
• Harpsichord
• Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
• Paris