Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born to Leopold and Anna Maria Mozart. His father, Leopold, was a successful composer and violinist, and the author of a popular treatise on violin playing. Mozart's birthplace, the Hagenauer Haus, is now a museum dedicated to his life and work.

At the age of five, Mozart begins his musical education under the guidance of his father, Leopold. He quickly shows extraordinary talent, composing minuets and performing on the keyboard and violin. His father recognizes his prodigious abilities and begins to nurture his talents.

Mozart, along with his sister Maria Anna (Nannerl), gives his first public performance in Munich. The performance is a success, and the children are praised for their musical abilities. This marks the beginning of a series of concert tours across Europe.

While on a tour of Europe, Mozart's compositions are published in London. The works, including several sonatas for keyboard and violin, are dedicated to Queen Charlotte of the United Kingdom. These early publications bring him recognition and admiration from the musical community.

Mozart is appointed concertmaster of the Salzburg Court Orchestra by Archbishop Sigismund von Schrattenbach. This position, while not particularly prestigious, provides Mozart with a steady income and the opportunity to continue his musical education and compositional work.

Mozart embarks on his first Italian tour, which lasts until 1773. During this time, he composes several operas, including 'Mitridate, re di Ponto,' and 'Lucio Silla.' He also meets many influential musicians and composers, including the renowned castrato singer Farinelli.

Mozart is appointed court composer to the new Archbishop of Salzburg, Hieronymus von Colloredo. This position offers more opportunities for Mozart to compose and perform, but it also brings conflicts with the Archbishop over creative control and salary.

Disillusioned with his position in Salzburg, Mozart leaves for Paris with his mother. The trip is challenging, and Mozart faces financial difficulties and the death of his mother in 1778. Despite these hardships, he composes several works, including the Paris Symphony.

Mozart resigns from his position as court composer in Salzburg and moves to Vienna to pursue a career as a freelance composer and performer. This decision marks a significant turning point in his life, allowing him greater artistic freedom but also increasing financial uncertainties.

Mozart marries Constanze Weber, the daughter of a friend. The marriage is initially met with disapproval by Mozart's father, but the couple goes on to have six children, although only two survive infancy. Constanze becomes a supportive partner and helps manage Mozart's household and career.

Mozart's opera 'The Marriage of Figaro' premieres at the Burgtheater in Vienna. The opera, based on a play by Beaumarchais, is a critical success and is widely performed. Its witty libretto and complex musical score are considered among Mozart's finest works.

Mozart dies at the age of 35, leaving behind a legacy of over 600 compositions. His death is attributed to a fever, and he is buried in a common grave at the St. Marx Cemetery in Vienna. Despite his short life, Mozart's influence on music is profound, and his works continue to be celebrated worldwide.