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 No4 is the last piece of the set. It is the lightest of the 4 pieces of the set, in the sense that the tension has now subsided and the mood is now more joyful, as if Schubert is saying "Just kidding folks!". There is peace and acceptance in the music, signalling the final stage of Schubert's mental exploration in the confrontation with his illness. Suggested title for this piece: "Accepting".