After composing his two piano sonatas, Nos. 15 and 16, in April and May of 1825, Schubert embarked on a journey to Upper Austria. Sonata No. 17 was written during this journey. Like its predecessors, this work was also published during Schubert's lifetime. It is dedicated to his friend, the pianist Karl Maria von Bocklet (1801-81).

Despite being an expanded sonata lasting nearly 40 minutes, its overall vitality and richness throughout might be an expression of the composer's confidence, stemming from his recognition as a musician, such as his election as an alternate director of the Gesellschaft der Musikfreunde in Vienna in the same year.

It is worth noting that during this trip, the "Gastein" Symphony, which was thought to be lost, was also composed (it is now believed to be the "Great" Symphony).

First Movement: Allegro vivace, D major, 4/4 time.

Sonata form. It consists of a rich, chord-centered first theme and a scherzando second theme that emphasizes rhythm. The development section features diverse modulations.

Second Movement: Con moto, A major, 3/4 time.

The ambiguity of the meter is intriguing. Although it is in 3/4 time, it somehow feels like 6/8 time. The song-like theme that appears midway is characteristic of Schubert and quite charming.

Third Movement: Scherzo. Allegro vivace, D major, 3/4 time.

Continuing from the previous movement, it offers delightful rhythmic play. Hemiola is frequently used, but the sense of 3/4 time is restored in the trio section.

Fourth Movement: Rondo. Allegro moderato, D major, 4/4 time.

A light-hearted finale. Although it shows moments of power, it is generally charming, concluding as if falling into sleep.