The Letters of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart — Volume 01   By: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791)

In "The Letters of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart — Volume 01," readers are granted a rare glimpse into the vivid mind and troubled soul of one of history's most eminent composers. Compiling a collection of Mozart's personal letters written from the tender age of five until his untimely death at only thirty-five years old, this volume provides an intimate narrative of his life and artistic development.

Spanning over four decades, this exquisite compilation takes the reader on an emotional journey through Mozart's joys, sorrows, triumphs, and frustrations. His correspondence reveals a man who was not only deeply passionate about his craft but was also deeply affected by the world around him. Through his letters, we witness Mozart's unwavering dedication to perfecting his musical compositions, his relentless pursuit of recognition and patronage, as well as his unwavering love for his family and friends.

What sets this collection apart is the remarkable authenticity and candor in Mozart's words. From his letters, we gain insight into his humor, his insecurities, and his unwavering determination to succeed despite numerous setbacks. Whether he is humbly expressing his gratitude for a favorable review or lamenting his struggles with poverty, Mozart's letters immerse readers in his world, making him relatable and human.

Additionally, this volume offers valuable historical context, allowing readers to appreciate the cultural and artistic landscape of Mozart's time. The careful annotations and commentary accompanying each letter offer a deeper understanding of the composer's life, his relationships, and the societal conventions and norms of the era. These details enrich the reading experience and bring Mozart's world to life.

Despite the value this collection holds for Mozart enthusiasts and scholars alike, it is worth noting that this volume may not appeal to casual readers or those with limited interest in classical music. The abundance of technical jargon and references to specific compositions may alienate readers who are not well-versed in the language of music. However, for those who have a genuine curiosity about Mozart's life and wish to delve into the mind of a musical genius, these letters provide an invaluable resource.

"The Letters of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart — Volume 01" is a deeply personal and revealing collection that offers a captivating insight into the life and mind of one of the world's greatest composers. Through the medium of his own words, Mozart's genius, his struggles, and his unyielding passion for his craft shine brightly, allowing readers to connect with him on a profoundly human level. Whether one is a devoted Mozart aficionado or simply curious about the man behind the music, this volume has much to offer and is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

First Page:

A full and authentic edition of Mozart's Letters ought to require no special apology; for, though their essential substance has already been made known by quotations from biographies by Nissen, Jahn, and myself, taken from the originals, still in these three works the letters are necessarily not only very imperfectly given, but in some parts so fragmentary, that the peculiar charm of this correspondence namely, the familiar and confidential mood in which it was written at the time is entirely destroyed. It was only possible to restore, and to enable others to enjoy this charm a charm so novel, even to those already conversant with Mozart's life, that the most familiar incidents acquire fresh zest from it by an ungarbled edition of these letters... Continue reading book >>