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Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: A Life in Letters

Edgar Allan Poe

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Published in Mozart: A Life In Letters (Penguin Classics)

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Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was one of the most prolific and influential composers of all time. A child prodigy, he composed his first symphony at the age of 8 and went on to write over 600 works in his short lifetime. Mozart's music is characterized by its beauty, grace, and wit, and it has been enjoyed by people of all ages for centuries.

Mozart: A Life in Letters (Penguin Classics)

by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2352 KB
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Print length	:	640 pages

Mozart was born in Salzburg, Austria, on January 27, 1756. His father, Leopold, was a musician and composer, and he recognized his son's talent at an early age. Mozart began studying music with his father at the age of 3, and by the age of 6 he had already composed several short pieces. In 1762, Mozart and his father embarked on a concert tour of Europe, which lasted for three years. During this time, Mozart performed for royalty and other dignitaries, and he was widely praised for his prodigious talent.

In 1769, Mozart was appointed to the court of the Archbishop of Salzburg. However, he soon grew restless in this position, and he began to travel again in search of new opportunities. In 1777, he moved to Vienna, where he hoped to establish himself as a composer and performer. However, Vienna was a highly competitive music scene, and Mozart initially struggled to find success. He eventually gained recognition for his operas, which were praised for their beauty and wit. Mozart also wrote a number of concertos, sonatas, and other works, which are now considered to be among the greatest masterpieces of classical music.

Mozart's personal life was often turbulent. He was always in debt, and he had a difficult relationship with his father. Mozart also suffered from a number of health problems, including epilepsy. In 1791, Mozart died in Vienna at the age of 35. The cause of his death is unknown, but it is believed that he may have died from rheumatic fever or kidney failure.

Despite his short life, Mozart left behind a legacy of music that has had a profound impact on Western culture. His works are still performed and enjoyed by people all over the world, and he is considered to be one of the greatest composers of all time.

Mozart's Letters

Mozart was a prolific letter writer, and his letters provide a fascinating glimpse into his life and work. In his letters, Mozart discusses his music, his travels, his relationships, and his financial difficulties. He also provides valuable insights into the musical and social life of 18th-century Europe.

The following is a selection of Mozart's letters:

To his father, from Paris, 1778: "I am very well content with my present situation, and I hope to remain here for some time. The people here are very kind and polite, and I am beginning to make some progress in the French language. I have already composed several pieces of music, which have been well received by the public."
To his sister, from Vienna, 1782: "I am working very hard on my new opera, and I hope it will be a success. I have also been writing a number of other pieces, including a concerto for piano and orchestra. I am very excited about my new work, and I hope you will enjoy it."
To his wife, from Prague, 1787: "I am writing to you from Prague, where I am conducting the premiere of my new opera, Don Giovanni. The opera has been a great success, and I am very happy with the way it has been received. I am now on my way back to Vienna, where I will continue to work on my music."

Mozart's letters are a valuable source of information about his life and work. They provide a unique insight into the mind of one of the greatest composers of all time.

Mozart: A Life in Letters (Penguin Classics)

by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

4.8 out of 5