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 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.
What it is
Mozart (1756–1791) was born in Salzburg into a musical family 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, including operas like *The Marriage of Figaro* and *Don Giovanni*, the Jupiter Symphony, and the unfinished Requiem.
Why it matters
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. In Canada, his works are a major part of the classical repertoire, regularly performed by orchestras, opera companies, conservatories, and music students.
Key details
Mozart composed more than 600 pieces, including 41 symphonies. He died in Vienna on December 5, 1791, at age 35. The exact cause of his death remains uncertain in historical sources, with no definitive medical explanation surviving.
In short
- Austrian composer of the Classical period, born 1756 in Salzburg.
- Wrote over 600 works across opera, symphony, chamber, and sacred music.
- Died in Vienna at age 35; cause of death unknown.
- His music is a staple of classical performance in Canada.
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.
Quick questions
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Sources
- 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.