Whether you are a genuine fan of classical music or not, you have likely heard of one of the all-time greats, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. This legendary composer created some of the best-known songs of all time, a vast majority of which are still used and listened to today! But how much do you honestly know about one of the world’s greatest composers? Here are some fascinating and fun facts about Mozart to help you get in tune with his legacy!
1. The birth of an icon!
Mozart was born in Salzburg – in Austria – on January 27, 1756. He was baptized as Johannes Chrysostomus Wolfgangus Theophilus Mozart, but later preferred to use Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Something of a mercy, then!
2. He was the first of the child prodigies.
Mozart was a true child prodigy! He showed exceptional musical talent from an early age, and began composing music at the age of just five years old. He started performing in front of royal courts and audiences shortly after – have we ever seen anything quite like it since?
3. Pick a genre!
Although nowadays we simply refer to Mozart as having composed “classical music,” the truth is that he composed music in various genres! These included symphonies, concertos, chamber music, operas, and choral works. He didn’t like to niche down into one particular sound, so it seemed.
4. What’s so special about Mozart?
Whether or not you’re a classical music buff, it isn’t hard to recognise that Mozart’s compositions are incredible! They are known worldwide for their technical brilliance, emotional depth, and exquisite melodies. It’s thought that you notice something new each time you listen to a Mozart piece.
5. Money, money, money, must be funny!
Having been considered such a talented genius, it would be easy to assume that Mozart was simply rolling in money! However, Wolfgang faced many financial difficulties throughout his life. He often struggled to find steady employment and relied on commissions, public performances, and the support of patrons to sustain himself.
6. Name that tune!
Some of Mozart’s most famous works include “The Marriage of Figaro” and “The Magic Flute,” two operas that helped to establish the talented Austrian as a giant in the genre. These operas remain very popular and are even still performed to this day! In fact, it’s likely you’ve heard a Mozart work and maybe don’t even realise it.
7. What was Mozart’s life’s work made up of?
We can definitely say that Mozart’s compositions made up his life’s work! In fact, he created over 600 works in his life, including 41 symphonies, 27 piano concertos, 23 string quartets, and numerous other compositions! It’s safe to say he worked pretty hard for his legacy.
8. Was Mozart a pioneer?
Absolutely! Mozart was known for his technical precision. His compositions have continued to influence generations of composers that followed in his footsteps! He inspired composers such as Ludwig van Beethoven – who was, of course, a legendary composer in his own right.
9. He wasn’t with us for long.
Mozart’s life was cut tragically short when he died at the age of 35. He died on December 5, 1791. The exact nature of his demise remains a mystery; however, many believe that it was due to a combination of illness and overwork. His tragic life saw deeper exploration in the Oscar-winning movie “Amadeus.”
10. What’s the Bridgerton connection?
Fans of Netflix smash “Bridgerton” will know that the character of Queen Charlotte states that she “discovered” Mozart as a boy. And it is, in fact, pretty accurate! He went to play for the King and Queen at Buckingham Palace, and Queen Charlotte famously loved music – she was certainly was among the first to discover the talented composer!
FAQs about Mozart
Did Mozart ever hear Beethoven?
Some believe that Mozart and Beethoven may have crossed paths when Mozart was in his thirties and Beethoven but a teenager. However, there is no official record of them meeting.
Who was better, Beethoven or Mozart?
Can you really pick? Beethoven and Mozart are both considered to be musical geniuses! You will have heard music from both of them whether you know it or not, so as to which is better depends entirely on your tastes!
What was Mozart’s IQ?
Mozart was known for being very intelligent! Experts believe that his IQ was somewhere between 150 and 155, making him officially a genius!
Further reading:
https://facts.uk/tag/Music
https://www.classicfm.com/composers/mozart/
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2020/aug/05/mozart-where-to-start-with-his-music
Do you know any fun facts about Mozart? Share them in the comments below!
