Born on January 31
Franz Schubert's Birthday
A song for someone you love.
Next: January 31, 2027
Where it comes from
Franz Schubert was born near Vienna on 31 January 1797, and this Story marks his birthday. A schoolmaster's son, he played viola in the family string quartet, sang in the imperial court chapel choir and studied with Antonio Salieri.
How it's celebrated
There is no public holiday, but his birthday is a lovely excuse to listen: the eerie gallop of 'Erlkönig', the calm of 'Ave Maria', or the Symphony in B minor known as the 'Unfinished'. Musicians often mark the day with recitals of his songs and chamber music, and anyone can send a friend a song.
Did you know
He was shy about his first compositions, and it took his friends' encouragement to bring them to Salieri's notice.
Read the full story of Franz Schubert's Birthday
Star sign
Aquarius · January 20 – February 18 · Air sign
Original and independent, a little ahead of their time.