Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Biography - A Very Quick Guide

Artist:
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart 
Born:
January 27, 1756, Salzburg
Died:
December 5, 1791, Vienna


When Was Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Born?

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born on January 27, 1756, in Salzburg, Austria. A child prodigy, he began composing at the age of five.

What Kind of Music Did Mozart Write?

Mozart wrote in nearly every musical genre of his time. His works include symphonies, operas, chamber music, piano concertos, and sacred works.

What Are Mozart’s Most Famous Compositions?

Among Mozart’s 600+ works, many stand as timeless masterpieces:

  • Symphonies: No. 40 and No. 41 “Jupiter”
  • Operas: The Marriage of Figaro, Don Giovanni, Così fan tutte, The Magic Flute
  • Concertos: Piano Concertos Nos. 20, 21, and 23; Violin Concerto No. 5 “Turkish”
  • Chamber Music: Clarinet Quintet, String Quintet in G minor
  • Sacred Music: Requiem Mass

    Who Was Constanze Mozart?

    Constanze Weber Mozart (1762–1842) was Mozart’s wife and an accomplished singer. The two married in 1782 (against Mozart’s father’s wishes).

    Did Mozart Have Children?

    Yes—Wolfgang and Constanze had six children, though only two survived infancy:

    Karl Thomas Mozart (1784–1858), who worked in government service.

    Franz Xaver Wolfgang Mozart (1791–1844), who became a composer and pianist like his father, though he lived in his shadow.

    How Did Mozart Die?

    Mozart died on December 5, 1791, in Vienna, at the age of just 35. The exact cause remains uncertain - possibly rheumatic fever or kidney failure. Wild speculation and conspiracy theories about the real cause of his death remain popular to this day.

    The Mozart Movie

    Speculation about the reasons for Mozart's death weren't helped by the 1984 film Amadeus. Directed by Miloš Forman and based on Peter Shaffer’s play, the film dramatized Mozart’s life and rivalry with fellow composer Antonio Salieri. The film suggested Salieri actually commissioned the requiem, which is known to be historically inaccurate. But the film also captured the spirit of Mozart’s genius and popularized his music for a new generation. It won 8 Academy Awards, including Best Picture.


  • Top Pieces on 8notes by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart