Ave Maria by Schubert

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Schubert's Ave Maria is based on Walter Scott's poem Lady of the Lake. The German translation is by Adam Storck. That poem revolves around a girl, Ellen Douglas, the Lady of the Lake ("Fürstin des Sees", or "princess of the lake"). She hides with her father in a cave to escape the king's revenge on clan leader Roderick Dhu. This clan chief was banished and had given her a hiding place. In her despair the girl prays to Maria and asks for help. The clan leader Roderick doesn't hear her because he is preparing a war with his clan higher up the mountain.

The opening words and the chorus ("Ave Maria") meant that the song was also used in religious contexts, such as weddings and funerals. Often Latin text instead of the original romantic German text is placed on the melody.

Such a beautiful piece.