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Mozart: A Life from Beginning to End
Mozart Free BONUS Inside!* * * Read On Your Computer, MAC, Smartphone, Kindle Reader, iPad, or Tablet. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is a figure that is cemented in the annals of history as one of the greatest composers of all time. A fascinating and enigmatic character, Mozart was hailed in his own lifetime as a child prodigy and a musical genius. His travels throughout Europe exposed him to art, music, and education, offering plentiful opportunities for his gifts as a composer and musician to evolve and thrive. Despite his preternatural talents, the artist struggled significantly throughout his life, and he died in his prime. Explore the life of one of history’s greatest classical composers as his ambitions and remarkable skills catapult him into the highest aristocratic courts of the Age of Enlightenment. Inside you will read about... ✓ Prodigious Bloodlines ✓ Early Compositions and Career ✓ Fame, Riches, and Opera ✓ The Man Behind the Music ✓ War Time, Hard Times ✓ The Death of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart And much more! Series Composer Biographies Book 1
111 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 26, 2017
205 people are currently reading
241 people want to read
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Hourly History
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 5, 2022
the very human genius
Not only an exploration of Mozart’s life, with all its beauty and struggle, but a discussion of the history, diseases, wars, politics and musical culture present during his 35 years. Detailed and full of anecdotal insights. The very human genius that some believed experienced a touch of the divine.
Not only an exploration of Mozart’s life, with all its beauty and struggle, but a discussion of the history, diseases, wars, politics and musical culture present during his 35 years. Detailed and full of anecdotal insights. The very human genius that some believed experienced a touch of the divine.
January 8, 2022
Shorter read
Matches up with the podcast I heard about Mozart. Quick enjoyable read that Co signed on what did you missed in history class told me about Mozart.
Matches up with the podcast I heard about Mozart. Quick enjoyable read that Co signed on what did you missed in history class told me about Mozart.
March 7, 2022
I received this book free from Amazon and it is part of the Hourly history collection (https://hourlyhistory.com)
These books are mostly about historical events or historical persons.
This one is about Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the greatest composers ever lived and has all the important information about the remarkable man who had divine opus in his 35 years, in a very concise way (you can read it within an hour).
This is my assessment of this book Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, by Hourly history according to my 8 criteria:
1. Related to practice - 3 stars
2. It prevails important - 4 stars
3. I agree with the read - 5 stars
4. not difficult to read (as for non-English native) - 5 stars
5. Too long (more than 500 pages) - short and concise (150-200 pages) - 5 stars
6. Boring - every sentence is interesting - 4 stars
7. Learning opportunity - 4 stars
8. Dry and uninspired style of writing - Smooth style with humouristic and fun parts - 3 stars
Total 4.125 stars
Some excerpts from the book:
Mozart was an eccentric figure—a slender and nondescript man who dressed extravagantly, a soft-spoken musician with a mischievous glint in his eye, liable at any moment to play a prank or crack a dirty joke. Yet, the compositions he created in his 35 years are sublime, divinely inspired works of elegant sophistication. Mozart created, guided, and defined an entire era of music history while inspiring the composers who followed in his footsteps to journey further, experiment more wildly, and continue to forge down the path he had himself begun.
His music is universally acknowledged as some of the most complex and sophisticated works of art in the entirety of human history to date.
By the age of four, he was composing simple pieces which his father would record.
For two years toward the end of this period, Leopold and Wolfgang traveled together to Italy to allow Wolfgang to perform solo. It was during this trip that Wolfgang wrote his first opera, Mitridate, re di Ponto. He was 14 years old.
“I tell you before God, and as an honest man, he [Mozart] is the greatest composer known to me by person and repute, he has taste and what is more the greatest skill in composition.” —Joseph Haydn
In 1784, Mozart was also admitted to the Freemasons, and the guild became an important institution to him for the remainder of his life.
The perfect storm of his prodigious bloodline coupled with his worldly education allowed him to evolve into one of the classical masters in history.
In the months leading up to his death, Mozart composed some of his most recognizable work, including the opera The Magic Flute, his final piano and clarinet concertos, the liturgical motet Ave verum corpus, and perhaps most ominously, his unfinished Requiem.
Easily the most famous figure that Mozart’s works influenced was Ludwig van Beethoven, who was 15 years younger than Mozart and who studied his predecessor’s work voraciously as a teenager.
Fernando Sor, a Spanish guitarist, wrote several pieces that were variations on Mozart’s themes, as did Romantic-era Polish composer and pianist Frédéric Chopin.
Another composer who would prove to be a staple of the Romantic era, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, would also write an entire tribute to Mozart, nearly a hundred years after the artist’s death
These books are mostly about historical events or historical persons.
This one is about Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the greatest composers ever lived and has all the important information about the remarkable man who had divine opus in his 35 years, in a very concise way (you can read it within an hour).
This is my assessment of this book Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, by Hourly history according to my 8 criteria:
1. Related to practice - 3 stars
2. It prevails important - 4 stars
3. I agree with the read - 5 stars
4. not difficult to read (as for non-English native) - 5 stars
5. Too long (more than 500 pages) - short and concise (150-200 pages) - 5 stars
6. Boring - every sentence is interesting - 4 stars
7. Learning opportunity - 4 stars
8. Dry and uninspired style of writing - Smooth style with humouristic and fun parts - 3 stars
Total 4.125 stars
Some excerpts from the book:
Mozart was an eccentric figure—a slender and nondescript man who dressed extravagantly, a soft-spoken musician with a mischievous glint in his eye, liable at any moment to play a prank or crack a dirty joke. Yet, the compositions he created in his 35 years are sublime, divinely inspired works of elegant sophistication. Mozart created, guided, and defined an entire era of music history while inspiring the composers who followed in his footsteps to journey further, experiment more wildly, and continue to forge down the path he had himself begun.
His music is universally acknowledged as some of the most complex and sophisticated works of art in the entirety of human history to date.
By the age of four, he was composing simple pieces which his father would record.
For two years toward the end of this period, Leopold and Wolfgang traveled together to Italy to allow Wolfgang to perform solo. It was during this trip that Wolfgang wrote his first opera, Mitridate, re di Ponto. He was 14 years old.
“I tell you before God, and as an honest man, he [Mozart] is the greatest composer known to me by person and repute, he has taste and what is more the greatest skill in composition.” —Joseph Haydn
In 1784, Mozart was also admitted to the Freemasons, and the guild became an important institution to him for the remainder of his life.
The perfect storm of his prodigious bloodline coupled with his worldly education allowed him to evolve into one of the classical masters in history.
In the months leading up to his death, Mozart composed some of his most recognizable work, including the opera The Magic Flute, his final piano and clarinet concertos, the liturgical motet Ave verum corpus, and perhaps most ominously, his unfinished Requiem.
Easily the most famous figure that Mozart’s works influenced was Ludwig van Beethoven, who was 15 years younger than Mozart and who studied his predecessor’s work voraciously as a teenager.
Fernando Sor, a Spanish guitarist, wrote several pieces that were variations on Mozart’s themes, as did Romantic-era Polish composer and pianist Frédéric Chopin.
Another composer who would prove to be a staple of the Romantic era, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, would also write an entire tribute to Mozart, nearly a hundred years after the artist’s death
January 8, 2018
“The music is not the notes, but the silence between.”
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
The term “Classical Music” applies to musical genre-spanning centuries of constant change and development. Ancient musicians created and developed a language of notes that would continue to expand and transform as time went on. The Baroque and Rococo Periods of music (1600-1775) saw composers as Johan Sebastian Bach and Antonio Vivaldi reach a pinnacle of musical composition. A natural extension of these styles was the Classical Period (1750-1825). This musical period produced a myriad of composers, many of which are household names even today. The name Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart stands shoulders above his contemporaries.
There is no doubt that Mozart was a musical genius and child prodigy as his first written compositions were penned at the age of four. By the age of six, accompanied by his sister, (five years his senior) Maria Anna (Nannerl), on a musical tour throughout much of Europe. The Mozart siblings couldn’t help but charm, delight, and empress the reigning courts of Europe. This marked the beginning of a remarkable tale of joy and sorrow, success and misfortune, and paved the way to lasting fame, if not fortune.
People familiar with the life and works of Mozart can’t help but wonder at the sheer volume of work that would have flowed from his quill if he would have lived into his septuagenarian years. The amount of work he produced in the thirty-five years of life outweighs most of his contemporaries that live full and productive lives. The apparent ease in which he composed, writing musical pieces without hesitation or necessary corrections, as attested by friends and colleagues that witnessed him at work, goes a long way in explaining his proficiency.
I must confess that I seldom award five stars to books in this series, as their brevity leaves little to learn or expound on. This, though hampered by the same deficiencies, succeeds in relaying the essence of both the man and his works. I must further confess that, as a musical aficionado, hold a special affection for the Classical Period and works of Mozart, Haydn, and Beethoven.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
The term “Classical Music” applies to musical genre-spanning centuries of constant change and development. Ancient musicians created and developed a language of notes that would continue to expand and transform as time went on. The Baroque and Rococo Periods of music (1600-1775) saw composers as Johan Sebastian Bach and Antonio Vivaldi reach a pinnacle of musical composition. A natural extension of these styles was the Classical Period (1750-1825). This musical period produced a myriad of composers, many of which are household names even today. The name Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart stands shoulders above his contemporaries.
There is no doubt that Mozart was a musical genius and child prodigy as his first written compositions were penned at the age of four. By the age of six, accompanied by his sister, (five years his senior) Maria Anna (Nannerl), on a musical tour throughout much of Europe. The Mozart siblings couldn’t help but charm, delight, and empress the reigning courts of Europe. This marked the beginning of a remarkable tale of joy and sorrow, success and misfortune, and paved the way to lasting fame, if not fortune.
People familiar with the life and works of Mozart can’t help but wonder at the sheer volume of work that would have flowed from his quill if he would have lived into his septuagenarian years. The amount of work he produced in the thirty-five years of life outweighs most of his contemporaries that live full and productive lives. The apparent ease in which he composed, writing musical pieces without hesitation or necessary corrections, as attested by friends and colleagues that witnessed him at work, goes a long way in explaining his proficiency.
I must confess that I seldom award five stars to books in this series, as their brevity leaves little to learn or expound on. This, though hampered by the same deficiencies, succeeds in relaying the essence of both the man and his works. I must further confess that, as a musical aficionado, hold a special affection for the Classical Period and works of Mozart, Haydn, and Beethoven.
February 23, 2021
Mozart seemed to have the world under his finger; he was composing music by the time he was little more than a toddler. However, Mozart's history is not nearly as luminous as one would expect for such a genius. Hourly History tells a story of a young man who found it difficult to stay above water with his finances. Because his life was often hand-to-mouth, by the time he got money, he spent it on the frivolous and ostentatious. It is shocking to realize that such a talent created so much music and died at 35-years-of-age.
Both Wolfgang and his sister were child prodigies. The terrible thing about life for a musician at that time was the difficulty he had in earning a living. Mozart was constantly chasing the next commission. There is no absolute proof regarding what caused Mozart's death. However, this book explores the theory of playwright Peter Shaffer and AMADEUS. There was a rumor of homicide because of a rival musician Antonio Salieri and the rivalry between Mozart and Salieri.
I would have liked to know more about Mozart's marriage and children. They had 6 children but only two boys reached maturity. Was either of the boys a musician? The information offered was a fine overview of the subject of Mozart.
Both Wolfgang and his sister were child prodigies. The terrible thing about life for a musician at that time was the difficulty he had in earning a living. Mozart was constantly chasing the next commission. There is no absolute proof regarding what caused Mozart's death. However, this book explores the theory of playwright Peter Shaffer and AMADEUS. There was a rumor of homicide because of a rival musician Antonio Salieri and the rivalry between Mozart and Salieri.
I would have liked to know more about Mozart's marriage and children. They had 6 children but only two boys reached maturity. Was either of the boys a musician? The information offered was a fine overview of the subject of Mozart.
June 2, 2020
A brief synopsis of the life and divine accomplishments of amozart
I confess, without shame, that I worship at the altar of genius. However, I do not feel I am shallow in my worship.
This brief book only touches on the importance of Mozart’s contributions; but it is a worthy read.
It was written once that: While most composers write for audiences, Mozart wrote for God.
If you only want to explore a bit of Mozart, then this book will suffice. I recommend it for the casual student.
I confess, without shame, that I worship at the altar of genius. However, I do not feel I am shallow in my worship.
This brief book only touches on the importance of Mozart’s contributions; but it is a worthy read.
It was written once that: While most composers write for audiences, Mozart wrote for God.
If you only want to explore a bit of Mozart, then this book will suffice. I recommend it for the casual student.
May 24, 2021
◾Mozart was taken from the world far too young by a still unidentified illness at the tender age of 35, cutting short a hugely productive period in his compositional career, and ominously leaving his final piece unfinished. He did not receive a funeral befitting a public figure of his fame and popularity, but he was memorialized and mourned across Europe; this is further proof that he was recognized and admired.
July 8, 2018
This book is very short and can be read in a quick sitting. You will get a synopsis of the main characteristics of Mozart's short life, 35 years. You can progress to another source for more detailed facts about his life and music. Watch the movie, Amadeus for a flavor of his crazy life and musical genius..
September 10, 2023
Mozart: The Legend
When I first was exposed to Mozart's music, I was just ten years old and mesmerized. His music opened my eyes and ears to the joy and splendor of classical works of the arts.
This book is well written and informative as to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Any fan would enjoy this read.
When I first was exposed to Mozart's music, I was just ten years old and mesmerized. His music opened my eyes and ears to the joy and splendor of classical works of the arts.
This book is well written and informative as to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Any fan would enjoy this read.
July 9, 2018
WOW!!!
Oh my goodness this was incredible!! Such a difference from the edition on Beethoven. This is so well written that I was riveted. It hooked me from the beginning and I was kept wanting for more. I recommend this HIGHLY
Oh my goodness this was incredible!! Such a difference from the edition on Beethoven. This is so well written that I was riveted. It hooked me from the beginning and I was kept wanting for more. I recommend this HIGHLY
May 26, 2021
A Fascinating Artist
This is a short biography of Mozart, which despite its brevity answers many questions about a unique individual who excites our curiosity both musically and regarding his life. Recommended.
This is a short biography of Mozart, which despite its brevity answers many questions about a unique individual who excites our curiosity both musically and regarding his life. Recommended.
August 21, 2021
Simply the best.
Hourly history freebie, they give these out on fridays for free. Suitable for all ages. A quick look at the life and death of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Does not dwell on his composing because it could not be covered in under an hour.
Hourly history freebie, they give these out on fridays for free. Suitable for all ages. A quick look at the life and death of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Does not dwell on his composing because it could not be covered in under an hour.
December 22, 2021
Is Mozart the Greatest Composer of All Time?
A very enjoyable and informative book that covered Mozart’s musical career and his personal life. The book was geared for the non-musician as it didn’t get into very technical issues on his works.
A very enjoyable and informative book that covered Mozart’s musical career and his personal life. The book was geared for the non-musician as it didn’t get into very technical issues on his works.
February 17, 2023
The life of a genius
The brief biography does a good job of covering the important details of Mozart's life. I learned about his career and about his major works. The author covers the place Mozart has in the Classical era and who
were his influencers
The brief biography does a good job of covering the important details of Mozart's life. I learned about his career and about his major works. The author covers the place Mozart has in the Classical era and who
were his influencers
January 27, 2025
Mozart was a child prodigy and is one of the greatest composers in Western music. I knew something about his life from the movie Amadeus that came out a few years ago. This book gave me a clearer picture about his life, work, struggles and relationships.
December 29, 2017
Shorter Than a Short life
This book seemingly covers all the basic facts . Unfortunately, it has all the verve of Cliff Notes. Zero stars.
This book seemingly covers all the basic facts . Unfortunately, it has all the verve of Cliff Notes. Zero stars.
November 18, 2019
Mozart was an amazing and remarkable man.
September 17, 2020
Enjoyable
I really like these short historical books. Easy to read and has plenty of information about the man. Nice touch.
I really like these short historical books. Easy to read and has plenty of information about the man. Nice touch.
November 22, 2020
Another little gem from hourly history regarding the legend of whom I knew noting but his name till now.
December 16, 2020
Mozart the great.
The most compelling part of a book like-this is to let reader to many of the qualities of noted person in only one hour. A job well done and so says Mozart too.
The most compelling part of a book like-this is to let reader to many of the qualities of noted person in only one hour. A job well done and so says Mozart too.
June 6, 2024
Good short read
I adore Mozart and I did learn some stuff I did not know, or that have forgotten. Good brief history.
I adore Mozart and I did learn some stuff I did not know, or that have forgotten. Good brief history.
May 25, 2021
Greatest success after death
Having heard Mozart's name to the point of "doesn't everyone know Mozart" I admit freely, I knew nothing. A classical composer, not my genre, who had a rocky life.
Having heard Mozart's name to the point of "doesn't everyone know Mozart" I admit freely, I knew nothing. A classical composer, not my genre, who had a rocky life.
June 19, 2021
"Neither a lofty degree of intelligence nor imagination nor both together go to the making of genius. Love, love, love, that is the soul of genius."
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews