Questions and Answers
Who was Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart?
Austrian composer, one of the most significant composers of concertos, opera, and symphonies.
What significant event happened in Mozart's early life?
He was taught by his composer father and began composing at a very young age.
What role did Mozart have at the Salzburg Court?
He was hired as a musician.
What challenges did Mozart face in Vienna?
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What happened to Mozart's health towards the end of his life?
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Which of the following is one of Mozart's most famous works?
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What is notable about the second movement of Piano Concerto No. 21?
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What does 'Eine Kleine Nachtmusik' translate to?
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Mozart's Symphony No. 40 is one of his only symphonies composed in a major key.
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What significant aspect of 'The Magic Flute' is noted?
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What was unique about Mozart's Requiem?
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Study Notes
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
- Austrian composer known for pivotal contributions to concertos, operas, and symphonies.
- Composed over 600 works before his premature death at 35 years old.
- Instrumental in popularizing the pianoforte as a solo concerto instrument.
Early Life
- Introduced to music by his father, a composer, and began learning keyboard and violin by age 5.
- Gained fame through tours performing for European royalty.
- Composed his first symphony at the age of 8 and first opera by age 12.
Salzburg Court
- Employed as a musician under the rule of Salzburg, leading to the composition of early violin piano concertos.
Life in Vienna
- Relocated to Vienna where he married and studied works of Bach and Handel.
- Formed friendships with prominent composers like Haydn, dedicating 6 string quartets to him.
- Experienced significant success, composing and performing many piano concertos.
- Financial instability arose from an extravagant lifestyle, prompting a search for a court appointment.
- Moved family out of Italy in 1788 to reduce expenses; faced a low point financially during 1788-1789.
End of Life (1790-1791)
- Experienced a creative resurgence in 1790 as financial conditions improved.
- Declined mental and physical health led to death from an unknown illness.
- Faced rumors of poisoning; recognized as a musical genius during his life and posthumously.
Most Famous Works
- Notable compositions include Piano Concerto No. 21, the operas of Mozart/Da Ponte, Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, Symphony No. 40, The Magic Flute, and Requiem.
Piano Concerto No. 21
- Recognized as his most famous piano concerto, particularly renowned for its second movement.
Mozart/Da Ponte Operas
- Collaborated with librettist Lorenzo Da Ponte to create iconic operas including "The Marriage of Figaro," "Don Giovanni," and "Cosi fan tutte."
Eine Kleine Nachtmusik
- Translates to "a little serenade" or "a little night music"; composed for a chamber ensemble.
- Likely commissioned, though specific circumstances remain unknown.
Symphony No. 40
- One of only two minor key symphonies by Mozart; noted for its memorable opening theme.
The Magic Flute
- His final opera, premiered just two months before his death.
- Features the Queen of the Night Aria, recognized as both noteworthy and highly challenging.
Requiem
- Mozart's last composition, commissioned by an anonymous patron, Franz Von Walsegg.
- Completed posthumously by his copyist and friend, Franz Xaver Süssmayr.
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Explore the life and work of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart through interactive flashcards. Learn about his contributions to music, his early life, and his significant creations in a fun and engaging way. Perfect for students and enthusiasts alike!
