Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Born:

January 27, 1756, Salzburg, Austria

Died:

December 5, 1791, Vienna, Austria

Nationality:

Austrian

Profession(s):

Composer, Pianist, Violinist

Early Life and Education

• Born Johannes Chrysostomus Wolfgangus Theophilus Mozart.
• Recognized as a child prodigy by his father, Leopold Mozart, a composer and violinist.
• Began composing at age five.
• Toured Europe extensively as a child performer alongside his sister, Maria Anna (Nannerl).

Career and Major Achievements

• Served as a court musician in Salzburg, but sought more independence.
• Moved to Vienna in 1781 to pursue a freelance career.
• Achieved considerable success as a composer and performer, particularly in opera.
• Struggled with financial stability despite his talent and output.

Notable Works

• Operas: The Marriage of Figaro, Don Giovanni, The Magic Flute, Così fan tutte.
• Symphonies: Symphony No. 40 in G minor, Symphony No. 41 in C major ("Jupiter").
• Concertos: Piano Concertos (numerous), Violin Concertos.
• Chamber Music: String Quartets, Piano Trios.
• Requiem: An unfinished Requiem Mass, completed by Franz Xaver Süssmayr.

Legacy and Impact

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart remains one of the most influential and celebrated composers in Western musical history. His prodigious talent, vast output, and innovative compositions continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Even a short and subjective summary, such as 'kurt schwitters brief biography of mozart' reveals the impossibility of capturing the composer's genius in a few sentences.

Major Works by Category

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