Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a highly regarded composer of music during the Classical era…and that is simplifying his contributions greatly. With over 600 compositions, Mozart is one of the most enduring and popular composers ever, and many of his works are still played worldwide today.
Baptized Joannes Chrysostomus Wolfgangus Theophilus Mozart, he was born on January 27, 1756 in Salzberg. He generally went by the name “Wolfange Almadé Mozart” in his adult life, with many variations. He was introduced to music by his father, Leopold, and by the age of five, Mozart was himself composing little pieces that he played to his father. His father would write these down, and eventually gave up his own composing of music when he realized the genius he had in his son. Leopold was Mozart’s only teacher in his early years, and also taught his children (Mozart and his sister, Maria Anna) other subjects.
Mozart’s father began to take the children traveling, showcasing them as child prodigies. During a trip to Vienna in 1767, Mozart contracted small pox and his father refused to have him inoculated, saying that it was “God’s will” whether he survived or not. During these trips to Italy, Mozart composed the first of many operas, “Mitridate Rè di Ponto,” which led to other opera commissions: “Ascanio in Alba,” and “Lucio Silla.” During the time in Italy, Mozart heard and wrote out, in its entirety, Gregorio Allegri’s “Miserere.” This was the first reproduced copy of the work, as it was closely guarded by the Vatican and illegal to copy.
In 1773, Mozart was employed as a court musician by Prince-Archbishop Hieronymus Colloredo, the ruler of Salzburg. He was unhappy with the position, even though he was considered one of the favorite sons of Salzburg. The pay was low and Mozart wanted to compose operas. He was fired from this position after he balked at the Archbishop’s treatment of him, and after he was forbidden to play for Emperor Joseph II. Mozart then moved to Vienna with his new wife, Constanze Weber.
It was in Vienna that Mozart composed two of his best known works: “The Marriage of Figaro,” and ”Don Giovanni.” He was at the height of his career, and often lent an ear to upcoming talent, such as Ludwig van Beethoven. In 1791, Mozart became very ill with fever. It isn’t known exactly what caused his illness, but he passed away at 1 in the morning on December 5, 1791.
There is so much more to learn about Mozart. Be sure to check out the interview with Robert Levin, and the 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Mozart on the Simply Mozart site. And as always, be sure to visit the Simply Mozart Forum with your questions, and the Simply Mozart Store to build your Mozart library!
Happy Learning!
