Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Prodigious composer who revolutionized classical music with his innovative compositions

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) remains one of history's most extraordinary musical geniuses whose work fundamentally transformed Western classical music. Born in Salzburg, Mozart demonstrated unprecedented musical talent from early childhood, composing his first symphony at age eight and performing for European royalty.

What made Mozart truly revolutionary was his ability to synthesize musical styles while expanding compositional complexity. His operas like The Marriage of Figaro and Don Giovanni broke new ground in character development and dramatic structure, elevating the art form to unprecedented heights.

Mozart's 675 catalogued works spanned every major genre of his time, including:

• 41 symphonies that expanded orchestral possibilities
• 27 piano concertos that redefined solo-instrument dialogue
• Groundbreaking chamber music like his Eine kleine Nachtmusik

His late works like the Jupiter Symphony and Requiem Mass demonstrated unparalleled contrapuntal mastery. Musicologists at Mozarteum Foundation note how his 'musical architecture' influenced Beethoven, Schubert, and subsequent generations.

Despite dying at 35, Mozart's legacy endures through his timeless melodies and structural innovations that continue shaping music education and performance worldwide. The Vienna Mozart Orchestra maintains his tradition through historical performances using period instruments.