One of Schubert's most popular works, this is a simple and humble catholic prayer with incredibly moving melody. When Schubert composed this piece in 1825, he did not have in mind a religious prayer but Sir Walter Scott's epic poem written in 1810 "The Lady of the Lake", so he had given to his music the name "Ellens Gesang III" (Ellen'a third song).
In Scott's poem, Ellen Douglas (The Lady of the Lake) goes with her exiled father to live in the Goblin's cave as he did not accept to join a rebellion against King James. The leader of the rebellion goes to search for them and kill them but lingers when he hears Ellen singing a prayer to the Virgin Mary to help them. The chief then goes on to the battle to kill them.
The music was given the name "Ave Maria" because of the opening of the poem which refers to Virgin Mary. Although Schubert died early, this music was considered a masterpiece during his lifetime. The melody is one of the most cherished, influential and frequently heard in the history of music, captivating and moving the listeners regardless of religion.