I, Franz Schubert

The composer Franz Schubert tells his own story from beyond the grave. In this unique account, Schubert reflects on the successes and failures of his career as a freelance musician in 18th century Vienna. He recalls the best aspects of his life: a sunny disposition, a delight in the natural world, and above all, his many devoted friends. But he also has to recognise the demons which ultimately destroyed him: a highly sensual nature susceptible to severe mood-swings, and a tendency towards loneliness, over-indulgence and despair. A fascinating study of a highly contradictory character who barely made an impact on the musical life of his day, but is now undoubtedly one of the best-loved of all classical composers.