Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was an Austrian composer of the Classical period, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Western music.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791) was an Austrian composer of the Classical period, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Western music. He wrote more than 600 works across many genres, including opera, symphony, chamber music, and sacred music. Born in Salzburg, he died in Vienna at age 35.
Life and career
Mozart was born into a musical family in Salzburg in 1756 and became a celebrated child prodigy. He later worked in several European centers before settling in Vienna, where he produced many of his best-known works.
Musical output
Mozart composed in nearly every major genre of his time. His works include operas such as The Marriage of Figaro and Don Giovanni, the Jupiter Symphony, and the unfinished Requiem. He wrote 41 symphonies and more than 600 pieces overall.
Legacy
Mozart is considered one of the central composers of the Classical period. His music remains widely performed and studied for its melodic invention, formal balance, and expressive range.
Death
Mozart died in Vienna on December 5, 1791, at age 35. Contemporary and later sources differ on the exact cause, and no definitive medical explanation survives.
Key facts
- Mozart was an Austrian composer of the Classical period.
- He composed more than 600 pieces across multiple genres.
- He wrote 41 symphonies.
- The exact cause of his death remains uncertain.
- He is widely regarded as one of the greatest composers in Western music.
Mozart’s music is a major part of the classical repertoire in Canada, where it is regularly performed by orchestras, opera companies, conservatories, and music students.
Frequently asked questions
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References
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Wolfgang-Amadeus-MozartSupports: Birth, death, nationality, age at death, and overview as an Austrian composer.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/summary/Wolfgang-Amadeus-MozartSupports: Age at death and uncertainty about cause of death.
- The Kennedy Center — https://www.kennedy-center.org/education/resources-for-educators/classroom-resources/media-and-interactives/artists/mozart-wolfgang-amadeus/Supports: Born and died dates, Austrian identity, and broad scope of works.
- English National Opera — https://www.eno.org/people/wolfgang-mozart/Supports: Born in Salzburg, died in Vienna, and total of 41 symphonies.
- Salzburg.info — https://www.salzburg.info/en/salzburg/city-of-mozart/wolfgang-amadeus-mozartSupports: Birthplace in Salzburg and death in Vienna at age 35.