In 1827, the year of his death, Schubert wrote 2 sets of Impromptus (O. 90 and Op. 142), each consisting of 4 pieces. An Impromptu, as its name suggests, is a musical work, usually for a solo instrument that has the free spirit of improvisation and does not follow a strict compositional structure. These 8 Impromptus, published after Schubert's death, are considered the first piano works in the history of music which move towards the emotional music of the Romantic era. They are generally quiet and intimate music. As the famous pianist András Schiff confirms "You get a hear attack-not just when you play, but when you hear this music". It is believed that the Impromptus Op. 90 set of 4 pieces symbolises the composer's journey of facing and accepting his serious illness: from declaration to escape to pray and finally to acceptance.
Impromptu Op. 90 No 3 is probably the best-loved of the set of 4 Impromptus Op. 90. It is a serene, nocturne-like melody piece, with a prayerful spirit, reminiscent of Ave Maria, where tension and peacefulness alternate, expressing Schubert's coming into terms with his declining health. Suggested title for this piece: "Praying".