Franz Schubert (1797–1828) was a prolific Austrian composer of the late Classical and early Romantic eras, famous for his over 600 art songs (Lieder), symphonies, chamber music, and piano works, bridging old and new styles despite a short, largely Vienna-based life filled with poverty and strong friendships, leaving behind masterpieces like "Ave Maria," "Unfinished Symphony," and the "Trout Quintet".